Brian Lawler’s death being investigated by Tennessee Bureau of Investigation; Sheriff issues statement

As reported by WMC News in Memphis, the Tennessee Bureau of Investigations is investigating the death of Brian Christopher Lawler. The son of WWE Hall of Famer Jerry Lawler, who wrestled in that company and on the indies as Grandmaster Sexay and Brian Christopher, died on Sun. July 29 after he was found hanging in his Hardeman County Jail cell the night before. He had been arrested on July 7 for DUI and evading arrest.

Considering the circumstances and Lawler’s fame, especially locally, an investigation is likely standard procedure*. Statements indicate there was no sign of foul play, and that Lawler gave no signs to corrections officials he was experiencing suicidal ideation.

Here are the statements, via PWInsider:

The Tennessee Bureau of Investigation

“At the request of 25th District Attorney General Mark Davidson, TBI Special Agents are investigating the circumstances surrounding an incident involving an inmate at the Hardeman County Jail. On Saturday evening, Brian C. Lawler (DOB 1/10/72) was found hanging in his cell. Corrections officers administered CPR until paramedics arrived. Lawler was transported to Regional One Medical Center in Memphis where he died Sunday afternoon. Preliminary information indicates the incident does not involve foul play. However, the investigation remains active and ongoing. Lawler was booked into the Hardeman County Jail on July 7th on charges of DUI, Driving on Revoked, and Evading Arrest.”

Hardeman County Sheriff John Doolen

“Mr. Lawler, a resident of Hardeman County, was arrested for third offense DUI, driving on a revoked driver’s license and felony evading arrest. Mr. Lawler’s bond was set at $40.000. He appeared before the Judge of the General Sessions Court at which time his family requested time to determine if they were going to hire a private attorney or wanted the public defender to represent Mr. Lawler. Mr. Lawler, because of his notoriety, was placed in a cell by himself but as the Sheriff’s Department had no indication he was suicidal, he was not on suicide watch. When Mr. Lawler was discovered, he was given CPR and air lifted to the MED in Memphis. The Tennessee Bureau of Investigation was notified and requested to investigate the circumstances surrounding Mr. Lawler. Any further information will be provided by Tennessee Bureau of Investigation.”

* As pointed out by Cagesider CopperFox in the comments below and J.R. Lind on Twitter, regardless of Lawler’s celebrity or any other factors, an outside investigation into a death while a person is in custody is standard procedure.