Tragedy struck the El Paso County Downtown Detention Facility earlier this week when an inmate was found unresponsive during a routine check. El Paso County Sheriff Oscar Ugarte took to social media to convey the details of the incident that led to the inmate's death. His statement explained that the inmate, identified as 34-year-old Jonathan Rizzo, received immediate aid from detention officers but ultimately was pronounced deceased at a local hospital.
Around 4:20 p.m. on August 1, authorities found Rizzo during their routine check, as reported by El Paso County Sheriff Oscar Ugarte. The Texas Commission on Jail Standards was informed, adhering to legal requirements, and an investigation was promptly initiated by both the Major Crimes Unit of the El Paso County Sheriff’s Office and the Texas Rangers. El Paso County Sheriff Oscar Ugarte stated, "Our priority is the safety and well-being of everyone in our custody." While preliminary findings suggest his death was natural, the full truth behind Rizzo's unresponsive state remains under thorough investigation.
Transparency and accountability are the cornerstones of the Sheriff's Office actions as the investigation unfolds. Ugarte reassured the public and all interested parties that processes would align strictly with state laws and the department's internal policies. Forensic analyses, interviews, and reviews of facility procedures will be essential components in uncovering the cause and circumstances of the incident.
