Authorities probe inmate death at Clay County jail

HAYESVILLE – Authorities are investigating an inmate’s death at the Clay County Detention Center.

Anthony L. Solary, 32, of Franklin, was found dead in his cell Wednesday, Clay County Sheriff Vic Davis said in a news release. The inmate had hung himself, Davis said.

Solary was arrested without incident earlier that day on charges of using fraudulent prescriptions to obtain drugs from a pharmacy.

“While awaiting an appearance before a Clay County magistrate, Mr. Solary was placed in a holding cell at the detention center,” Davis said. “As a detention officer was making rounds and delivering meals, Mr. Solary was found unconscious and had hung himself. The detention officer called for assistance and began efforts to revive Solary.”

Detention officers along with Clay County EMS and fire rescue personnel attempted to revive Solary but were unsuccessful, Davis said. Solary was pronounced dead at the scene.

Investigators discovered Solary had multiple outstanding felony warrants for his arrest in Haywood County, including warrants for obtaining controlled substances by fraud/forgery, felony possession of Schedule II controlled substance and trafficking opium/heroin, Davis said.

An autopsy and toxicology test are planned, Davis said. The investigation is ongoing, he said.