Police investigate death in Marin County Jail cell

San Rafael police are investigating the death of a man in custody at the Marin County Jail, authorities said.

Officers conducting a routine check shortly after 2 a.m. Thursday found the man alone in his cell and in need of medical attention, the Marin County Sheriff’s Office reported. They began life-saving measures and called paramedics from the San Rafael Fire Department, but he was pronounced dead about 30 minutes later.

The man’s next of kin have been notified, said the sheriff’s office, which did not release his identity or the reason for his detention. The Marin Independent Journal identified him as Derrek Leeds, 43, of San Rafael.

The sheriff’s office said it has requested an independent investigation by the San Rafael Police Department. The sheriff’s office medical examiner will conduct an autopsy.