A story for every victim

Tyrone Snell, 36

Tyrone Snell, a 36-year-old black man, was killed Saturday, Aug. 21, at Men's Central Jail in the 400 block of Bauchet Street in downtown L.A., according to Los Angeles County coroner's records.

At the time of his death, Snell was incarcerated on a forgery charge, according to the Los Angeles County district attorney's office. He had pleaded no contest and was sentenced Aug. 18 to 16 months in prison, with 40 days credit time.

Three days after his sentencing, Snell was in a cell with three other inmates when he was killed, said Ed Winter, spokesman for the coroner's office. The official cause of death was listed as asphyxiation and sharp, blunt-force trauma to the head.

Sheriff's homicide Det. Phil Guzman, who is handling the investigation, said a deputy at the jail noticed something amiss going on in the cell and found Snell dead when he went to check it out.

Det. Guzman said authorities believe Snell was killed after a disagreement among the cellmates.

No one has been charged in connection with Snell's death. Authorities are still investigating, Guzman said.

-- Sarah Ardalani

Share a memory or thought about Tyrone Snell

Before you post, here are some answers to frequently asked questions:

Remember, all posts are approved by a Times staffer. Profanity and personal attacks will not be approved.

  Required
  Required

42 reader comments