Demarian Cespedes
Demarian Cespedes, 22, died on March 13, 2026, while held at Columbia Correctional Institution in Lake City, Florida. The Florida Department of Corrections confirmed he was pronounced dead that day and said the cause has not yet been determined by the district medical examiner. His mother, Leah Cespedes, said she had contacted several state offices about fears for his safety before he died, and that she believes his death was not natural. Family and activists gathered outside the prison calling for answers.
Cause of death, as reported: Cause not yet determined (disputed; neglect alleged). The Florida Department of Corrections says the manner of death is pending the medical examiner's finding; his mother, Leah Cespedes, says she contacted several state offices about fears for his safety before his death and does not believe it was natural.
Reported by: Florida Department of Corrections (the agency that held him); Leah Cespedes, his mother (family or their lawyers).