San Diego County Sheriff Death Investigation 

June 20, 2026 – San Diego County Sheriff’s Office officials report that on Thursday, June 18, 2026, the Homicide Unit was notified that 48‑year‑old Travis Hughes, who was in Sheriff’s custody, had passed away at a local hospital.

On May 20, 2026, Mr. Hughes was transported from the Rock Mountain Detention Facility to a local hospital. On June 4, 2026, he was transferred to a second hospital where he received palliative care for a preexisting medical condition. On June 18, 2026, Mr. Hughes’ condition continued to deteriorate, and at 8:47 a.m., he was pronounced deceased.

Mr. Hughes had been arrested by the San Diego Police Department on August 10, 2025. At the time of his passing, he was facing charges including violation of parole, making criminal threats, and providing false identification to a peace officer. He was scheduled to appear in court on June 25, 2026.

Mr. Hughes' next of kin has been notified. The San Diego Sheriff's Office extends our sympathies to the Hughes 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