Northern Ireland

Prisoner dies in hospital five days after attempting to take his own life in Maghaberry Prison

Prisoner James Fleck passed away on Friday at Craigavon Area Hospital, five days after he attempted to take his own life in Maghaberry Prison on Sunday
Prisoner James Fleck passed away on Friday at Craigavon Area Hospital, five days after he attempted to take his own life in Maghaberry Prison on Sunday Prisoner James Fleck passed away on Friday at Craigavon Area Hospital, five days after he attempted to take his own life in Maghaberry Prison on Sunday

THE family of a Co Derry prisoner who died five days after attempting to take his own life in prison have said they will "co-operate fully" with investigations into what happened "to ensure that the full facts are brought to light".

James Fleck, from Blackrock Road in Kilrea, died on Friday after spending five days on a life support machine.

The 24-year-old appeared before Belfast magistrates court last Saturday charged with being concerned in the supply of Xanax, having the Class C drug with intent to supply and possession of both Xanax and Class B cannabis on March 1.

He was remanded into custody to appear before court again on Tuesday.

On Sunday, it emerged that the prisoner had attempted to take his own life in Maghaberry Prison and was on a life support machine at Craigavon Area Hospital. He died on Friday.

Solicitor Patrick Higgins said: "James's family want to ensure that no other family should ever have to live through the nightmare week they have just experienced and will co-operate fully with the Prisoner Ombudsman investigation and coroner's inquest to ensure that the full facts are brought to light".

The Department of Justice confirmed that the Prisoner Ombudsman had been informed.

Ronnie Armour, Director General of the Northern Ireland Prison Service, said: "I would like to extend my sympathy to the family of the prisoner. My thoughts are with them at this difficult time."