Story by Mike Nolting, WAJR
CLARKSBURG, W.Va. — A suspect in a 2023 murder in Clarksburg has died in jail.
Ulices Pineda, 44, was an inmate at the North Central Regional Jail after being charged in a man’s death last summer.
Authorities said Pineda was found unresponsive in his cell last Thursday during a routine check. Staff began life-saving measures but could not revive him.
The death is under investigation.
Pineda was charged with first-degree murder and being a felon in possession of a firearm in June 2023 after allegedly shooting Clarksburg resident David Mazza in the back four times.
Detectives identified Pineda through surveillance that showed a confrontation between the two that caused Mazza to flee. Pineda can be seen firing several shots until Mazza falls to the ground. Pineda can then be seen walking up to Mazza and firing several more times.
Police found the murder weapon during a search of Pineda’s home.
Pineda could have been sentenced to life in prison if found guilty and denied mercy.