Mary Brucato
Mary Brucato, 23, was a bright, creative child who loved books and dreamed of becoming a heart surgeon, according to three of her siblings. She was held at the Charleston County jail in South Carolina, where she was found face-down in her bed in her cell on August 11, 2025, after several days of withdrawal symptoms. Coroner Bobbi Jo O'Neal ruled her death a homicide, concluding she died of opioid withdrawal and dehydration due to medical neglect. Her family has filed a lawsuit, and a State Law Enforcement Division investigation is underway.
Cause of death, as reported: Died from neglect by staff. Coroner Bobbi Jo O'Neal ruled the death a homicide from opioid withdrawal and dehydration due to medical neglect, and the family's lawsuit makes the same allegation.
Reported by: Coroner Bobbi Jo O'Neal (medical examiner or coroner); Mary Brucato's family (family or their lawyers).
Lawsuit: Her family has filed a lawsuit over her death, and no settlement or award amount has been reported.