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38-year-old woman dies in holding cell in Harper Woods; cause unknown

The woman was found unresponsive Wednesday after being taken into custody

HARPER WOODS, Mich. – A family is looking for answers after a woman was found unresponsive in police custody in Harper Woods on Wednesday.

Priscilla Slater, 38, was found unresponsive in a holding cell around 12:35 p.m. by Harper Woods Department of Public Safety personnel, officials said.

According to officials medics immediately attempted to revive Slater but were unsuccessful. A St. John Hospital physician pronounced the woman dead at 12:45 p.m., officials said.

Slater was transported to the Wayne County Medical Examiner to determine the cause of death. The results have not yet been shared.

Michigan State Police are investigating the incident.

Harper Woods officials say that six public safety personnel -- four civilian aides and two supervisors -- have been placed on administrative leave as of Sunday afternoon. Their role in the incident is unknown at this time.

MORE: Protest held after 38-year-old woman dies in holding cell in Harper Woods

Slater was arrested alongside Lewis Nichols, 27, of Detroit in connection with a shooting at Parkcrest Inn in Harper Woods on June 9. Officers responded to reports of multiple shots being fired and multiple people saying they were almost shot by the same man. No one was struck by a bullet.

READ: Detroit man charged after shots fired at Parkcrest Inn in Harper Woods

Slater was with Nichols during the incident and would have faced a firearm charge. Nichols faces 20 charges including assault with intent to murder, felonious assault and more.

We will share additional details as this story develops.

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About the Author
Cassidy Johncox headshot

Cassidy Johncox is a senior digital news editor covering stories across the spectrum, with a special focus on politics and community issues.

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