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Prison inmate’s death probed as a homicide

A file photo of Lancaster State Prison.
A file photo of Lancaster State Prison.
(Spencer Weiner / Los Angeles Times)
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Sheriff’s detectives are investigating the death of an inmate in Lancaster State Prison this week as a homicide, authorities said Sunday.

Inmate Victor Earl Jones, 48, was found dead at the prison Friday afternoon, according to Deputy Lillian Peck of the Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Department. Peck said a sheriff’s homicide detective was investigating.

Coroner’s officials said a preliminary investigation indicated that another inmate struck Jones with an unknown object. An autopsy was pending, Deputy Coroner Dana Bee said.

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Authorities did not release the names of any suspects.

According to the California Department of Corrections and Rehabilitation website, Jones had been serving time since 1985.

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Twitter: @vicjkimvictoria.kim@latimes.com

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