Death Investigation 

October 2, 2026 – San Diego County Sheriff’s Office officials report that on Sunday, September 27, 2026, the San Diego County Sheriff’s Homicide Unit was notified that 62‑year‑old Paul Saldavar, in Sheriff’s custody at the San Diego Central Jail had passed away at a local hospital.

At approximately 2:20 p.m. on September 27, 2026, several Incarcerated Persons at the San Diego Central Jail alerted deputies that Mr. Saldavar was experiencing medical distress. Deputies contacted Mr. Saldavar in the dayroom area, where he appeared disoriented but responsive. He was immediately escorted to the facility’s medical clinic for evaluation. While in the clinic, Mr. Saldavar went into medical distress, prompting medical staff and deputies to initiate lifesaving measures.

Paramedics and personnel from the San Diego Fire Department responded and transported Mr. Saldavar to a local hospital, where lifesaving measures continued. Despite all efforts, he was pronounced deceased at approximately 9:15 p.m.

Mr. Saldavar had been in Sheriff’s custody since November 3, 2025, following an arrest by the San Diego Police Department. He was facing charges of assault with a deadly weapon, making criminal threats, and resisting arrest.

The San Diego County Sheriff’s Office extends its condolences to the Saldavar family and all those affected by his passing. A Sheriff’s Family Liaison Officer has been assigned and will continue to support the family during this difficult time.

The Citizens’ Law Enforcement Review Board (CLERB) was notified of the incident. In accordance with protocol for all in‑custody deaths, the Sheriff’s Homicide Unit is conducting a thorough investigation to examine all aspects of the case. The cause and manner of death will be determined by the Medical Examiner’s Office.

Source: San Diego County Sheriff’s Office