MACON COUNTY, Ala. (WRBL) – An arrest has been made following the death of 72-year-old John Reed, who was allegedly beaten by a fellow inmate while in custody at the Macon County Detention Center.

Authorities have charged 24-year-old Daniel Pollard with intentional murder in connection with the fatal incident, which occurred on the morning of October 22, 2024. According to court documents, Pollard is accused of repeatedly hitting and kicking Reed in the head, resulting in injuries that led to his death. The attack reportedly took place around 9:30 AM. Pollard remains in custody.

Macon County Coroner Hal Bentley confirmed Reed’s body has been sent to the Alabama Department of Forensic Sciences for an autopsy to determine the exact cause of death. The Alabama Law Enforcement Agency's State Bureau of Investigation (SBI) is leading the investigation into the incident.

Earlier reports indicat Reed died after sustaining critical injuries while in custody. District Attorney Mike Segrest told WRBL Sheriff Andre’ Brunson had immediately contacted him following the incident, and the SBI was called in to take over the investigation.

“I received a call from Sheriff Brunson immediately following the incident. I advised that ALEA needed to be called in to lead the investigation, and Sheriff Brunson informed me he had already done so. At this time, the District Attorney’s office has no other information on the pending investigation,” said Segrest.

Sheriff Brunson is expected release further details on the case as the investigation continues.

WRBL will continue to follow this developing story.