47-year-old Inmate Dies After Medical Emergency at Harris County Jail

HOUSTON – A 47-year-old man housed in the Harris County Jail died Wednesday morning following a medical emergency, according to officials.

Christopher Mendez was pronounced deceased at Ben Taub Hospital at 7:28 a.m. on Wednesday, December 17, 2025. Authorities said Mendez experienced an apparent medical emergency on December 16 and was transported by ambulance to the hospital for treatment. At the time, he was being held in the Harris County Jail on a drug possession charge.

As required by state law, the Houston Police Department is conducting an independent investigation into Mendez’s death, which is mandatory for all in-custody deaths. The incident has also been reported to the Texas Commission on Jail Standards.

In addition, the Harris County Sheriff’s Office Internal Affairs Division has opened a separate review to determine whether all applicable policies and procedures were followed. This review is standard protocol following a death in custody.

The Harris County Institute of Forensic Sciences will conduct an autopsy to determine the official cause of death. Officials said no further details are available at this time as the investigations continue.