Weatherford Democrat

October 7, 2008

Azle man found dead at county jail


WEATHERFORD — Community Education Centers officers attempted to resuscitate a 53-year-old Azle man Sunday night after the man was discovered unresponsive during a routine check at the Parker County Justice Center.

According to Sheriff Larry Fowler, the dead man was identified as Michael Eugene Wells of Azle who was jailed in late September.

According to CEC officials, Wells was observed lying slumped over on his bunk at 10 p.m. Sunday and was unresponsive.

A Monday release stated CEC personnel tried to revive Wells with a defibrillator until paramedics arrived approximately 10 minutes later.

Wells was pronounced dead at approximately 10:30 p.m.

Wells was seen at Weatherford Regional Medical Center Friday for unspecified symptoms. He was placed in a separation cell in the jail medical ward later that afternoon.

Community Education Centers officials are reportedly conducting an internal investigation in accordance with facility policy and procedures. Texas Rangers and Sheriff’s Investigators assisted in the initial investigation at the jail.

Preliminary autopsy results from the Tarrant County Medical Examiner Monday revealed Wells died of natural causes stemming from unspecified medical conditions. A formal ruling is expected pending the toxicology results.

Wells was in custody on charges of aggravated sexual assault and indecency with a child.