San Diego, CA–Authorities are investigating the death of an inmate found unresponsive in his cell on October 13, the Sheriff’s office said.
Deputies at the San Diego Central Jail were conducting a security check just after 10 p.m. when they discovered an inmate, 39-year-old Rafael Hernandez, hanging and unresponsive in his cell. Deputies immediately made entry into the cell to render aid. Deputies and medical staff performed life-saving measures until relieved by fire personnel. Hernandez was transported by ambulance to a local area hospital.
The initial prognosis was Hernandez was going to live. As his condition worsened his next of kin were notified. Due to the needs of the family and Hernandez’s condition, the San Diego Sheriff’s Department petitioned the San Diego Superior Court for Hernandez to be compassionately released from custody. The release was granted and on October 15 at about 10:30 p.m., Hernandez was released from custody.
The Sheriff’s Department has since learned Hernandez passed.
Hernandez was arrested by the San Diego police on October 24, 2020, and was booked into Sheriff’s custody for burglary and vandalism.
Hernandez was a resident of San Diego. No evidence of foul play was discovered.
The Medical Examiner’s Office has scheduled an autopsy.
