Female inmate who died in Redwood City jail identified

(KRON) — A woman who died in custody at Maple Street Correctional Center in Redwood City was identified Tuesday as 31-year-old Markeisha Monique Renee Blount.

Blount died on Sept. 29 from a suspected fentanyl overdose, the San Mateo County Sheriff’s Office said. Detectives determined that another female inmate brought fentanyl into the jail that ultimately killed Blount, and they declared her death a homicide, SMCSO said.

The homicide suspect was identified as 34-year-old Ashley J. Gromnicki. Detectives believe that she smuggled the drugs in, and supplied the drugs to Blount.

Gromnicki had previously been arrested for narcotics and theft crimes. She will remain in custody while the District Attorney’s Office reviews the case before filing charges.

Sheriff Christina Corpus said, “We are deeply saddened by this tragic incident. Our thoughts and prayers are with Markeisha’s family and loved ones during this unimaginable time. Fentanyl is a highly dangerous drug. Even the smallest amount can be deadly. We will not tolerate people bringing drugs into our facility and putting the safety of our employees, visitors and those in our custody at risk.”

Over the last several days, deputies have conducted several sweeps of the jail to check for any remaining drugs. On Oct. 1, deputies intercepted drugs before entering the secure portion of the correctional facility.

The San Mateo County Coroner’s Office will determine Blount’s official cause of death.