By Gina Yarbrough
San Diego, CA–A 55-year-old man in San Diego County Sheriff’s custody died early Thursday morning after being found unresponsive in a holding cell at the San Diego Central Jail, authorities said.
According to the Sheriff’s Department, deputies conducting routine checks around 11:55 p.m. Wednesday discovered the man alone and unresponsive inside his cell. Deputies immediately called 911, summoned medical staff, and began lifesaving efforts.
Paramedics and San Diego Fire-Rescue Department personnel continued resuscitation efforts before transporting the man to a local hospital, where he was pronounced dead at about 1:15 a.m.
The Sheriff’s Office said the man had been in custody since September 29 on a public intoxication charge. His identity is being withheld pending notification of the family.
The Sheriff’s Department expressed condolences to the man’s family and said a Family Liaison Officer has been assigned to provide support.
The Citizens’ Law Enforcement Review Board was notified of the death, and the Sheriff’s Homicide Unit is conducting a standard in-custody death investigation.
The Medical Examiner’s Office will determine the cause and manner of death.
