Central Detention Center responded to a medical emergency inside a housing unit. Aaron Luciano Ornelas was found hanging from a metal vent in the shower. Deputies, along with medical staff, performed life-saving measures on Ornelas until American Medical Response and San Bernardino County Fire arrived and assumed medical care. Despite lifesaving measures, Ornelas was pronounced deceased at the scene.Investigators with the Sheriff’s Specialized Investigations Division responded to the jail and assumed the investigation. Ornelas was transported to the Coroner’s Office where an autopsy will be performed.
Ornelas was arrested on January 5, 2024, by Victor Valley Sheriff’s Station deputies for an active warrant on drugs and weapons charges and remained in custody until his death.
Anyone with information regarding this incident is urged to contact the Specialized Investigations Division at 909-890-4904. Callers wishing to remain anonymous should contact We-Tip at 1-800-78-CRIME (27463) or go to wetip.com.
Refer: Deputy J. Young or Sgt. G. Moreno
Station: Specialized Investigations Division
Phone No. 909-890-4904
Case No. DR# 602400037 H# 2024-046
SHANNON D. DICUS, Sheriff-Coroner
San Bernardino County Sheriff-Coroner Department
DATE/TIME: May 21, 2024 / 4:21 a.m.
INCIDENT: In-Custody Death Investigation
LOCATION: Central Detention Center, 630 E. Rialto Avenue, San Bernardino
DECEDENT: Aaron Luciano Ornelas, 37-year-old resident of Colton
Source: San Bernardino County Sheriff’s Department
