An inmate held on Rikers Island died Thursday morning, marking the first death this year of a person in the custody of the city’s Department of Correction, the DOC said.

Chima Williams, 43, was in custody at the Eric M. Taylor Center, according to the DOC. 

According to the DOC, Williams was playing basketball with a group of inmates around 9:45 a.m. when Williams collapsed. Williams received medical attention immediately, but was pronounced dead, the DOC said. 

The cause of death is under investigation.

“On behalf of the New York City Department of Correction, we extend our deepest condolences to Mr. Williams’ loved ones. We are conducting a full investigation into this tragic event," Commissioner Lynelle Maginley-Liddie said in a statement.