In-Custody Death Following DUI Arrest: Odessa Police Department Hands Investigation to Texas Rangers

On December 22, 2023, the Odessa Police Department responded to a crash in the 2700 block of Eisenhower involving an intoxicated individual. The individual was identified as 50-year-old Teresa Garcia. The incident occurred at approximately 10:56 pm.

Upon investigation, it was determined that Garcia was operating a vehicle under the influence and was subsequently placed under arrest by the Odessa Police Department. However, during the course of the investigation, it was discovered that Garcia required medical attention before being transported to jail.

She was taken to Medical Center Hospital, where she encountered medical difficulties and became unresponsive. Despite efforts to revive her, Garcia passed away. The circumstances surrounding her death are being treated as an in-custody death.

The Odessa Police Department has identified Teresa Garcia’s next of kin and notified them of the unfortunate incident. However, due to the ongoing investigation now under the purview of the Texas Rangers, the department is limited in the information that can be released.

In accordance with the Code of Criminal Procedure 49.18(b), the Odessa Police Department will file a report with the Attorney General’s office. The report will detail the cause of Garcia’s death and will be submitted no later than the 30th day after her passing. The director of the law enforcement agency, in this case, OPD, is obligated to make a good faith effort to gather all relevant facts pertaining to the incident for inclusion in the report. The Attorney General will subsequently make the report available to interested parties, with exceptions made for privileged information.