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Inmate Self-Asphyxiation Incident

Sep 7, 2025,

Overview

A 29-year-old inmate at La Salle County Jail, Timothy Sellers, died after being found unresponsive in his cell from apparent self-asphyxiation. Authorities initiated lifesaving efforts and Sellers was transported to a hospital, where he died several days later. The Illinois State Police are investigating the incident.

Incident Details

  • Timothy Sellers, an inmate at La Salle County Jail, was found unresponsive in his cell just before midnight last Thursday.
  • Jail staff were performing routine cell checks when Sellers was discovered.
  • The apparent cause was self-asphyxiation.
  • Lifesaving measures were started immediately by jail employees.
  • Sellers was airlifted to a hospital for further treatment.
  • He was pronounced dead on the following Monday afternoon.

Background on Inmate

  • Sellers had been held in jail since early June on arson charges.
  • He was accused of starting a house fire on North Everett Street in Streator that resulted in the deaths of two cats.
  • At least one other person was present in the house during the alleged arson.

Investigation and Response

  • The Illinois State Police were called in to investigate the circumstances of Sellers' death.

Questions / Follow-Ups

  • Are there any findings or updates from the Illinois State Police investigation?
  • Were there any prior indications of self-harm risk for Sellers?
  • What changes, if any, will be made to jail procedures following this incident?