In-Custody Death Investigation 

February 19, 2026 – San Diego County Sheriff’s Office officials report that on Wednesday, February 18, 2026, Sheriff's Homicide investigators were notified that a 35-year-old male in Sheriff's custody at the San Diego Central Jail had passed away at a local hospital.

On February 18, 2026, at approximately 4:30 a.m., Sheriff's Deputies and a facility nurse at the San Diego Central Jail were distributing medication when they discovered an incarcerated person slumped over a table inside his assigned cell and appearing to be in medical distress. Upon observing the situation, the deputies immediately activated 9-1-1, requested additional assistance from the facility's medical staff, and began life-saving measures. 

Paramedics and the San Diego Fire Department assumed life-saving measures upon their arrival, and the individual was transported to a local hospital. Despite their efforts, the individual was pronounced deceased at the hospital at approximately 8:30 a.m.

The individual had been in Sheriff's custody since February 12, 2026, and was facing charges for grand theft and for violating a court order.

The identity of the deceased is being withheld pending notification of his family. The San Diego Sheriff's Office extends our sympathies to the decedent's family and all those affected by his passing. A Sheriff's Family Liaison Officer will support the family as they navigate through this difficult time.

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