Update - In-Custody Death Investigation
July 16, 2025 – San Diego County Sheriff's Office officials report that they are releasing details following the death of a 43-
year-old man, Corey Michael Dean, who was in custody at the Vista Detention Facility.
On Sunday, July 13, 2025, Sheriff's Homicide investigators were notified of Mr. Dean's passing at the Vista Detention Facility.
On July 13, 2025, at around 3:00 a.m., Sheriff's Deputies at the Vista Detention Facility were performing their routine safety checks when they discovered Mr. Dean unresponsive inside his cell. Upon observing the situation, the deputies immediately activated 9-1-1, requested assistance from the facility's medical staff, and began CPR.
Paramedics and the Vista Fire Department assumed lifesaving measures upon their arrival. Despite their efforts, Mr. Dean was pronounced deceased at the detention facility at about 3:20 a.m.
Mr. Dean, a resident of San Diego County, had been in custody since June 15, 2025, and was facing multiple burglary charges and felony vandalism.
The San Diego Sheriff's Office extends our sympathies to the Dean family and all those affected by Mr. Dean's passing. A Sheriff's Family Liaison Officer will continue to support the family as they navigate through this difficult time.
Related: San Diego County Sheriff Announces In-Custody Death of 43-Year-Old Man at Vista Detention Facility
The Citizens' Law Enforcement Review Board (CLERB) has been notified regarding the incident. As is the protocol for all in-custody deaths, the Sheriff's Homicide Unit responded and is conducting a thorough investigation to ensure all aspects of this incident are examined. The cause and manner of death will be determined by the Medical Examiner's Office.
Source: San Diego County Sheriff's Office