[September 22, 2018 Bel Air, MD] A 54-year-old inmate from the Harford County Detention Center died Saturday after experiencing a medical emergency while in his cell.

At approximately 5:17 am, correctional deputies found the inmate unresponsive in his cell. Deputies immediately called for medical staff at the detention center and available deputies to respond and begin life saving efforts. Medical staff initiated CPR and applied an AED for assistance, with no success. Members of the Bel Air Volunteer Fire Company responded and continued to administer assistance. The inmate, identified as James Allen Zornes, from Bel Air, was pronounced deceased at 6:16 am.

Pursuant to policy, the inquiry into the Zornes’ death was assumed by detectives with the Harford County Sheriff’s Office Criminal Investigations Division. Preliminary investigation indicated that Zornes suffered from multiple medical conditions and had been refusing medication. There were no signs of trauma or foul play. Zornes was alone in his cell at the time of death. Investigators with the Forensic Services Unit also responded to document the scene and collect evidence. The Office of the Chief Medical Examiner was notified and responded to transport the body for an autopsy.

Zornes was booked into the Detention Center on April 2 for failing to register as a sex offender.

The investigation is ongoing. No further information is available at this time.