Authorities investigating homicide after inmate found unresponsive in Merced County Jail

Authorities are investigating a homicide after an inmate was found unresponsive at the Merced County Jail.

At about 3:45 p.m. on Nov. 3, Merced County Jail custodial deputies found 26-year-old inmate Edward Ramos unresponsive in one of the jail’s holding cells, according to Deputy Michael Domingue.

Authorities said on-site medical personnel, as well as Riggs Ambulance Service, responded and attempted life-saving measures. Ramos was pronounced dead at the scene.

According to Domingue, Ramos was found inside one of the jail’s four-man holding cells and had multiple wounds to his body. It’s unclear how many other people were inside the cell at the time he was found. According to authorities, Ramos had been in custody since Oct. 27, but authorities did not say what charges the man was booked on.

Domingue said jail cells inside the facility are checked by surveillance cameras as well as custodial deputies. The Merced County Sheriff’s Office Major Crimes Bureau is investigating the death in collaboration with the Merced County District Attorney’s Office.

“It was an in custody death and we want to make sure we do a thorough investigation,” said Domingue. “The DA’s office helps us with any homicide investigation whether it be in custody or outside.”

Authorities said the death will be investigated by the agency in the same manner it investigates any death. According to Domingue, investigators will work to speak with any witnesses, check video footage from the facility as well as body worn cameras and review any logs that are kept.

“It’s going to get the same amount of attention as any other homicide,” said Domingue.

According to Domingue, it is unknown if any suspects have been identified. Authorities said the last recorded in custody death occurred in June, when an inmate died of natural causes.

This story was originally published November 12, 2024 at 3:06 PM.