San Diego

Inmate Dead at Vista Jail Identified as Miguel Gomez

An inmate who died while in custody Tuesday was identified Friday though the cause of death has not been identified, the San Diego County Sheriff's Department said.

Miguel M. Gomez, 36, of Vista died after experiencing an apparent medical emergency just before 10:30 p.m. Tuesday night at the Vista Detention Facility, sheriff's Lt. Rich Williams said.

"[Gomez] did not appear injured, but as deputies entered the module to help him, he became unresponsive," Williams said.

Gomez was transported to the hospital where he was pronounced dead, the lieutenant said.

A preliminary report by the San Diego County Medical Examiner's Office showed no trauma or the presence of illegal drugs in Gomez's system. The result of the autopsy is still pending, Williams said.

Gomez was in custody for a parole violation, being in possession of leaded cane and being a felon in possession of tear gas.

Deputies do not suspect foul play but the investigation was still ongoing, Williams said.

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