MIAMI — A Guantanamo Bay captive was found dead in his cell Saturday afternoon and an investigation is underway, a spokesman for the U.S. detention center said Monday afternoon.
Navy Capt. Robert Durand would not identify the dead man, saying the military was waiting until his family was notified of the death to disclose his name, age or native country.
Asked whether foul play was suspected, Durand said the detainee was found unconscious and unresponsive in his cell during a routine check. Guards and military medical staff attempted first aid and other lifesaving techniques but could not revive him, the Navy captain said.
“The cause of death is under investigation,” Durand said, noting that the range of possible reasons appeared to be either “natural or self-inflicted.”
Nine detainees have died in Guantanamo custody since the facility was established in January 2002.
