Two inmates have died while in custody at the Brazoria County Detention Center, prompting investigations by the Texas Rangers. ABC13 reported the death of Arthur Bautista, who was pronounced dead at the hospital after being found unconscious in his cell on July 21. Bautista had been incarcerated since March 25.
A second inmate, Murat Dalmizrak, was found unresponsive on Thursday, and despite immediate life-saving attempts by deputies and EMS, later died at the hospital; Dalmizrak had been in custody on multiple charges, including felony assault of a peace officer/judge and felony assault of a public servant, and he had been awaiting trial set to begin on November 12, according to the The Facts.
While both incidents have prompted separate investigations, the Texas Rangers, as part of standard protocol, are leading the inquiry into the causes of death, and the Brazoria County Sheriff's Office has affirmed its cooperation. Details surrounding the circumstances that led to the unresponsiveness of either inmate have not been disclosed, and the medical examiner has not yet determined the cause of Bautista's death, the Brazoria County Sheriff's Office remains committed to the well-being of inmates considering the events said Polston, who also mentioned the ongoing support provided to employees involved in the response to Dalmizrak's death.
Stephen Woodard, a Sergeant at the Texas Department of Public Safety, confirmed the standard investigation process and noted that the findings will be reviewed by the Brazoria County District Attorney's Office.
