Full Notification

On Thursday, January 25th, 2024 at about 6:30AM, the Novato Police Department received a request by the Marin County Sheriff's Office to investigate a death at the Marin County Jail. Per standard protocol, the Novato Police Department and the Sonoma County Coroner’s Office responded to investigate. The Novato Police Department is responsible for investigating the circumstances surrounding the incarcerated person's death. The Sonoma County Coroner's Office is responsible for determining the cause of death. The Sonoma County Coroner's Office has identified the decedent as 35-year-old Petaluma resident, Felicia Wyatt.

The preliminary investigation revealed Wyatt was alone in her cell when a jail deputy located her in need of medical assistance. Despite lifesaving measures performed by jail staff and members of the San Rafael Fire Department, Wyatt was pronounced deceased just before 6:00AM. Wyatt had been arrested on January 23, 2024 for outstanding warrants and drug-related charges. An autopsy examination is being conducted by the Sonoma Coroner's Office to determine a cause of death.

We would like to thank our partner agencies for their continued assistance and cooperation in this case. The Novato Police Department is committed to completing a thorough and impartial investigation by gathering all facts and evidence. Please call the Novato Police Department at 415-897-4361 with any questions or if you have any additional information related to this case. Any media inquiries related to the cause of death should be directed to the Sonoma County Sheriff's Office.

Marin County Sheriff's Office Initial Statement:
https://www.marinsheriff.org/community/news-press-releases/novato-police-investigating-an-in-custody-death-at-marin-county-jail