Joshua K. Messier
Joshua K. Messier, 23, died in 2009 while held at Bridgewater State Hospital in Bridgewater, Massachusetts. The state medical examiner ruled his death a homicide, attributing it to heart failure as guards forcibly placed him in restraints. Surveillance video shows guards standing by while CPR was not started promptly, according to the account in the sources. The correction commissioner rejected the medical examiner's finding, while an investigation by the Disabled Persons Protection Commission found that two guards were responsible for his death.
Cause of death, as reported: Killed by staff (disputed; neglect alleged). The state medical examiner ruled the death a homicide from heart failure while guards forcibly restrained him, and the Disabled Persons Protection Commission found two guards responsible, but the correction commissioner rejected the homicide finding; surveillance video shows guards standing by and staff not giving CPR promptly.
Reported by: state medical examiner; Disabled Persons Protection Commission (outside investigators); correction commissioner; surveillance video.