SBI investigating inmate death at Mecklenburg County Detention Center

CHARLOTTE, N.C. (QUEEN CITY NEWS) — An inmate at the Mecklenburg County Detention Center has died after she was found unresponsive Saturday night, the sheriff’s office says.

On Saturday, Nov. 1, around 11:40 p.m., a detention officer was called to a medical emergency in the cell of 51-year-old Sandi Hill, who resided at the detention center in Uptown.

Staff were alert and provided care until EMS arrived around 11:55 p.m., along with the Charlotte Fire Department. MEDIC continued lifesaving efforts as they transported Hill to Novant Presbyterian Medical Center, where she later died at approximately 12:44 am on Sunday.

Hill has been held at the detention center since May 23, 2025, on a common law robbery charge, according to the Mecklenburg County Sheriff’s Office.

“It is with a heavy heart that I share the passing of Ms. Hill, who was in our custody. The death of any individual in custody weighs heavily on us all. We have notified her next of kin and we extend our condolences to her family and loved ones, and we hope they find comfort in their memories of her during this time of mourning,” said Mecklenburg County Sheriff Garry McFadden.

MCSO is cooperating with the State Bureau of Investigation (SBI) as the agency investigates the death, and the medical examiner determines the cause of death.