In-Custody Death 

March 20, 2026 – Riverside County Sheriff’s Office officials report that on Wednesday, March 18th, 2026, deputies from the Larry Smith Correctional Facility discovered an inmate experiencing a medical emergency inside a housing unit cell. Custody staff and jail medical personnel immediately administered life-saving measures until paramedics arrived, but he was ultimately pronounced deceased at the scene.

Investigators from the Sheriff’s Corrections Central Investigations Unit and Coroner’s Bureau responded and assumed the investigation. The inmate was identified as George Ortiz, a 62-year-old resident of Corona. There were no signs of foul play, and Ortiz’s family was notified of his death.

The investigation is ongoing, and no further information is available. Anyone with information regarding this incident is encouraged to contact Investigator Art Rodriguez at (951) 955-6950.

Reporting Deputy: Sergeant Chris Wedel

File # BC260770009

Source: Riverside County Sheriff’s Office