ALACHUA COUNTY, Fla. – A 70-year-old man in custody at the Alachua County Jail died early Tuesday morning after experiencing a medical emergency, according to the Alachua County Sheriff’s Office.
Detention officers observed Ernest Gent displaying signs consistent with a possible medical illness during overnight hours and requested evaluation by infirmary medical personnel. Officials said Gent later suffered a medical crisis, became unconscious, and stopped breathing.
Detention officers and medical staff immediately began life-saving measures while requesting emergency assistance from Alachua County Fire Rescue. Gent was transported to UF Health Emergency Department, where he was later pronounced deceased.
Investigators from the Sheriff’s Office Criminal Investigations Division, Office of Professional Standards, and Forensics Team responded to both the jail and the hospital to begin a comprehensive investigation.
Authorities said Gent’s death preliminarily appears to be from natural causes. The 8th Judicial Circuit Medical Examiner’s Office has assumed the case and will conduct an autopsy to determine the official cause of death.
Gent has been in custody since January 10, 2026 after he was arrested for Trespassing.
Sheriff Scott said the agency recognizes the loss of life as tragic and extended condolences to Gent’s family and loved ones.
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