Suspect in deadly Sacramento mass shooting dies in county jail

This article originally appeared on KCRA.com.

Smiley Martin, a suspected gunman in the 2022 K Street mass shooting, died at the Sacramento County Main Jail early Saturday, according to his attorney.

The sheriff’s office said deputies were conducting a cell check in the 5-East 300 Pod and saw the 29-year-old, who has since been identified as Martin, as unresponsive. Deputies, medical staff and later Sacramento Fire Department personnel tried lifesaving efforts but Martin died at the jail around 2:15 a.m.

"I was informed of Mr. Martin’s tragic passing early this morning. The public defender team representing him is deeply saddened by his unexpected death," defense attorney Norman Dawson said.

Dawson said the public defense team is in contact with jail command and Martin's death is being investigated.

"It is most tragic that Mr. Martin passed away, fighting to defend his innocence in the preliminary hearing process," Dawson said. "Mr. Martin’s defense team sends our deepest condolences to his family, and we are here to support the family going forward."

The trial for the downtown shooting, which claimed six lives and injured 12 people, is still ongoing.

Martin was facing murder and weapons charges. Martin's brother Dandrae is also charged in connection with the shootings.