Update: Death Investigation at Vista Detention Facility
December 31, 2024 – San Diego County Sheriff's Office officials report that on December 28, 2024, around 9:00 a.m., Sheriff's 
Homicide investigators were notified 46-year-old Bobby Ray Patton, an individual in Sheriff's custody, passed away at the Vista Detention Facility. The San Diego Sheriff's Office extends our sympathies to Patton's family and those affected by his passing. A Sheriff's Family Liaison Officer will support the family as they deal with their loss.
On December 24, 2024, Mr. Patton told deputies he was having flu-like symptoms. He was seen by medical staff who ordered the appropriate tests. As a precaution, Mr. Patton was placed in medical isolation to ensure oversight of his symptoms and to prevent potential transmission to other incarcerated persons in custody.
On Saturday, December 28, 2024, around 8:00 a.m., while conducting their weekly hygiene inspection, deputies observed Mr. Patton sitting on the floor of his cell. Mr. Patton was breathing but did not respond to the deputies. Approximately 10 minutes later, two Medication Assistance Treatment deputies and a nurse contacted Mr. Patton in his cell. The nurse checked his vitals and offered him medication. While the nurse was talking to Mr. Patton, he started having difficulty breathing and went into medical distress. Medical staff immediately provided emergency medical aid until relieved by Vista Fire Department personnel. Despite all efforts to save him, Mr. Patton succumbed and unfortunately passed away.
Mr. Patton was taken into custody on November 25, 2024, on a felony warrant for 4573.6 PC Bringing Controlled Substances into a Jail or Prison. At the time of his arrest, he was believed to reside in Escondido.
On December 30, 2024, The Medical Examiner's Office completed an autopsy of Mr. Patton. The Medical Examiner was unable to determine cause and manner of death during the initial autopsy.
To view the previous press release dated December 28, 2024, click here.
As is the protocol for all in-custody deaths, the Sheriff's Homicide Unit responded and are conducting a thorough investigation.
Source: San Diego County Sheriff's Office