Sheriff's Office

For Immediate Release

Inmate Found Deceased in Cell at Washoe County Detention Facility, Natural Causes Suspected

The Washoe County Sheriff’s Office announces that at approximately 11:10 AM on November 12, 2022, Lorin Gross (DOB 10/3/1964) was found deceased in his cell at the Washoe County Detention Facility.  

Gross was booked at the Washoe County Sheriff’s Office Detention Facility by the Sparks Police Department at 11:00 AM on November 11, 2022. 

He was processed through booking and fingerprinted.  Gross received a medical screening from a nurse, was photographed, took a shower, and was moved to a housing unit, where he was placed in a cell by himself at 4:50 PM. 

At 4:30 AM on November 12, 2022, Gross was given breakfast.   

At 8:50 AM, Gross had a conversation with a Washoe County Sheriff’s Office Deputy who was conducting a routine housing unit check. 

At 11:10 AM, Gross was found unresponsive and lifesaving measures were initiated but unsuccessful.  

Washoe County Sheriff’s Office Detectives responded to the scene and the initial investigation found no evidence of foul play or any criminal activity. 

Gross’ next of kin have been notified and the investigation is now being conducted by the Washoe County Medical Examiner.   

“I want the community to know that we take these tragic incidents very seriously,” Sheriff Darin Balaam said.  “We hold ourselves to a very high standard and I want to assure the community this matter will be thoroughly investigated.”

The Washoe County Sheriff's Office is dedicated to preserving a safe and secure community with professionalism, respect, integrity and the highest commitment to equality. Sheriff Darin Balaam is the 27th person elected to serve as the Sheriff of Washoe County since the Office was created in 1861. The Washoe County Sheriff's Office strives to ensure public safety by building trust and creating partnerships within the diverse communities in which we serve. We will promote the dignity of all people supported by our words and actions through open communication while fostering an environment of professionalism, integrity and mutual respect.

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