Investigation Underway Following In-Custody Death at El Paso Detention Facility

EL PASO, TX – The El Paso County Sheriff’s Office is investigating the in-custody death of an inmate who was found unresponsive in his cell on August 1, 2025.

According to a statement from Sheriff Oscar Ugarte, Detention Officers at the El Paso County Downtown Detention Facility were conducting a routine check at approximately 4:20 p.m. when they discovered 34-year-old Jonathan Rizzo unresponsive. Officers rendered aid, and Rizzo was transported to the hospital, where he was pronounced deceased.

As required by law, the Texas Commission on Jail Standards was notified of the incident. The El Paso County Sheriff’s Office Major Crimes Unit and the Texas Rangers are conducting a full investigation.

Preliminary findings suggest a natural cause of death, but the investigation remains ongoing. Sheriff Ugarte stated, “Our priority is the safety and well-being of everyone in our custody. We are committed to full transparency and accountability and will ensure this case is thoroughly investigated in accordance with state law and departmental policy.”