Police are investigating whether an inmate who was fatally assaulted at Silverwater Correctional Complex last night was left lying in a cell for up to an hour before being discovered.
The ABC has learned that both the victim, a 39-year-old man, and his cellmate, Matthew Macguire, 35, were suffering from mental health issues and were considered a danger to themselves and others. Macguire has been charged with murder.
NSW Police were called to the jail just before 8:00 pm and found the victim unresponsive in his cell. A crime scene was established and examined by forensic officers. Authorities are also looking into whether the victim lay unattended for an hour before nurses attempted resuscitation.
Macguire was arrested, charged with murder, and placed in isolation pending a court appearance. Police confirmed both men were facing assault charges and were being held in a remand centre.
Corrective Services NSW has launched an independent investigation, stating it would be "premature to speculate" on the incident's cause. A spokeswoman expressed deep regret and extended sympathy to the victim's loved ones, adding that every aspect of the incident, including inmate management and placement, response times, and actions, will be thoroughly reviewed.
Macguire did not appear in person at Burwood Local Court and will remain in custody until his next court date in June.
