Death Of Inmate In San Diego Jail Investigated

SAN DIEGO, CA — The possibly drug-related death of a 22-year-old inmate at San Diego Central Jail was under investigation Wednesday.

Deputies found Saxon Fredrick Rodriguez of Chula Vista unconscious and unresponsive in his cell at about 10 a.m. Tuesday, according to the San Diego County Sheriff's Department.

Rodriguez, whose body showed no signs of suspicious injuries, was pronounced dead at the Front Street detention center, Lt. Thomas Seiver said.

During a preliminary postmortem screening, Rodriguez's system tested positive for fentanyl, according to Seiver.

"However, further laboratory testing is required to confirm this," the lieutenant said. "The cause and manner of death (rulings) are pending laboratory results and further evaluation."

Rodriguez had been in jail since Friday on suspicion of assault with a deadly weapon and indecent exposure.

— City News Service