San Diego County Sheriff's Department: Death Investigation

Press release from San Diego County Sheriff's Department:

10/22/2021 3:50 PM

On October 13, 2021, at about 10:15 p.m., deputies at the San Diego Central Jail were conducting a security check when they discovered an inmate, thirty-nine-year-old Rafael Hernandez, hanging and unresponsive in his cell.  Deputies immediately made entry into the cell to render aid.  Deputies and medical staff performed lifesaving measures until relieved by fire personnel.  Hernandez was transported by ambulance to a local area hospital.

The initial prognosis was Hernandez was going to live.  Unfortunately, his condition worsened and his next of kin were notified.  Due to the needs of the family and Hernandez's condition, the San Diego Sheriff's Department petitioned the San Diego Superior Court for Hernandez to be compassionately released from custody.  The release was granted and on October 15, 2021, at about 10:30 p.m., Hernandez was released from custody.

Sadly, the Sheriff's Department has since learned Hernandez passed.

Hernandez was arrested by the San Diego Police Department on October 24, 2020, and was booked into Sheriff's custody for the following charges:

459 PC – Burglary: First Degree
459 PC – Burglary: Second Degree
594(a)(b)(1) PC – Vandalism: over $400

Hernandez was a resident of the City of San Diego.  No evidence of foul play was discovered.

The Medical Examiner's Office has scheduled an autopsy for today.

Media Contact: Thomas Seiver, Lieutenant
Thomas.Seiver@sdsheriff.org
Sheriff's Homicide Unit (858) 285-6330

This press release was produced by San Diego County Sheriff's Department. The views expressed here are the author’s own.