Investigation into McClard's death ends

Investigation into McClard's death ends

Authorities have officially concluded the investigation into the death of 17-year-old inmate and Jackson native Jonathan McClard, who was found dead Jan. 4 in his cell at a correctional facility in Bonne Terre, Mo., Brian Hauswirth, spokesman for the Department of Corrections, said Tuesday. The investigation confirmed what had already been said by the St. Francois County coroner's office, that McClard committed suicide by hanging himself, Hauswirth said. He was not on suicide watch at the time of his death, Hauswirth said. McClard was set to be transferred to join the adult prison population after turning 17 on Jan. 1. He was serving a 30-year sentence for shooting another teen at a car wash in Jackson on July 10.