In a tragic development, a suspect connected to the 2022 mass shooting in Sacramento, California, has been found dead in his cell at the Sacramento County Main Jail. The 29-year-old male inmate, identified as Martin Smiley, passed away while in custody in the early hours of Saturday, according to both the Sacramento County Sheriff's Office and his attorney.

Martin Smiley was awaiting trial on three felony charges related to a shooting that took place on April 3, 2022, leaving six people dead and twelve others injured, including two of the alleged shooters. The incident occurred near the state Capitol building when two rival gangs opened fire as bars and clubs were closing, causing chaos amongst the fleeing crowd. Law enforcement officials have indicated that at least five gunmen were involved, further contributing to the gravity of the situation.

It was during a routine cell check that jail deputies discovered Martin Smiley unresponsive. Immediate life-saving measures were initiated by deputies and subsequently by personnel from the fire department. Tragically, despite their efforts, Smiley was pronounced dead. The sheriff's office has stated that the Sacramento County Coroner's Office will determine the cause of death and release his name following the notification of his next of kin. Additionally, they have assured that a thorough investigation into the circumstances surrounding his death will be conducted.

Public defender Norman Dawson, who represented Martin Smiley, expressed his shock and sorrow regarding the inmate's death. Dawson highlighted that Martin was actively fighting to prove his innocence during the preliminary hearing process at the time of his untimely demise.

Alongside Martin Smiley, two other individuals were arrested in connection with the mass shooting. Martin's brother, Dandrae Martin, was taken into custody as a "related suspect" and faced charges of assault with a deadly weapon and being a convict carrying a loaded gun. Another man, Mtula Payton, was also charged in connection with the shooting. However, specific details about their involvement were not mentioned in the available information.

The loss of Martin Smiley underlines the complexity and seriousness of the situation surrounding the Sacramento mass shooting. As the investigation progresses, authorities will continue to seek justice for the victims and hold those responsible accountable for their actions.