SOMERSET, PA — An inmate at the State Correctional Institution (SCI) at Somerset has died, according to a statement released by Superintendent Kenneth Hollibaugh. Steve Cossom, 44, was pronounced deceased on January 23, despite emergency efforts by prison staff and medical personnel.
The incident occurred during the early afternoon, with life-saving measures initiated immediately by SCI Somerset staff. Upon arrival of EMS, advanced life support techniques were employed, but Cossom was pronounced dead at 1:58 p.m.
Cossom was serving a 7-to-15-year sentence for Luring a Child into a Motor Vehicle, a conviction from Philadelphia County. He had been incarcerated at SCI Somerset since January 2018.
Per protocol, the Pennsylvania State Police have been notified and will conduct a formal investigation into the circumstances surrounding the death. Additionally, the Somerset County Coroner’s Office will determine the official cause of death.
Prison officials confirmed that Cossom’s next-of-kin has been informed. The investigation remains ongoing, with further details expected as authorities examine the matter.
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