An investigation is currently underway by the Contra Costa County Office of the Sheriff and the DA's Office following the death of a 27-year-old inmate in the West County Detention Facility in Richmond. The deceased, identified as Alonzo Thongkham from Oakland, had been arrested by the San Ramon Police Department on multiple felony theft charges on August 22 and was booked into the Martinez Detention Facility before being transferred to the West County facility.
On the afternoon of August 26, deputies discovered Thongkham unresponsive in his cell. Contra Costa County Sheriff's Office detailed that deputies, jail medical staff, and paramedics worked together in a futile attempt to save his life. Despite these efforts, Thongkham, who was housed alone, was pronounced dead at the scene. The Contra Costa Sheriff's Office mentioned that death does not appear to be suspicious.
The protocol for in-custody deaths involving law enforcement has been activated, signaling a detailed inquiry into the cause and circumstances of Thongkham's demise. The Contra Costa County Sheriff's Office stated that a jury will determine the manner of death at a coroner’s inquest, which is to be scheduled.
