Inmate Dies After Shooting at Coleman Federal Prison in Florida

A Florida inmate at a federal prison in Coleman died in October after being shot inside the high-security facility, authorities and family members confirmed.

The Brief

A 33-year-old inmate, Dwayne Tottleben, was shot and killed at U.S. Penitentiary Coleman I in October.
He was serving a 15-year sentence for possession of methamphetamine with intent to distribute.
The death remains under federal investigation, and family members are calling for transparency from prison officials.

SUMTER COUNTY, Fla. — Dwayne Tottleben, 33, who was serving a 15-year sentence for possession of methamphetamines with intent to distribute, was transported to UF Health Leesburg in Lake County after the shooting, where he later died.

What we know:

The federal inmate database lists Tottleben’s death as Oct. 11. The Sumter County Medical Examiner confirmed the death was the result of a shooting, with a preliminary cause listed as cardiac arrest caused by a single gunshot wound to the left shoulder.

The death remains under active investigation and is expected to be handled by federal authorities.

What we don’t know:

The Bureau of Prisons said the facility was placed on “enhanced modified operations” on Oct. 10, a temporary measure that affects inmate movement, programs, and services. Officials have not released additional details about the incident.

Family members and Tottleben’s attorney are seeking greater transparency and have requested a meeting with prison officials to better understand the circumstances surrounding his death.

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