Convicted murderer found dead in cell at SCI Benner Township, officials say

CENTRE COUNTY, Pa. (WJAC) — An SCI Benner Township inmate was pronounced dead after being found unresponsive in his cell Tuesday, according to a press release by the PA Department of Corrections.

Officials say prison staff and medical personnel immediately responded and performed life-saving measures until EMS arrived.

According to the press release, 39-year-old Evan Smith was transported to Mount Nittany Medical Center where he was pronounced dead just before 2:30 a.m.

The press release states that Smith was serving 23 to 47-year sentence for third degree murder from Bucks County and that he had been at the prison since March 30.

According to officials, the Pennsylvania State Police will conduct an investigation and a cause of death will be determined by the Centre County Coroner's Office.

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