Albuquerque –
The Bernalillo County Metropolitan Detention Center (MDC) is investigating another inmate death while in custody after the inmate suffered a medical emergency.
The inmate was identified as James Gonzales, 45. Gonzales was booked into MDC on July 11, 2026, and per booking records, he was charged with possession of a controlled substance (felony) and delivering drug paraphernalia to a minor.
At approximately 11:12 PM on July 17, staff responded to a medical emergency involving Gonzales. According to MDC, a “medical emergency code” was declared and MDC personnel, working with the University of New Mexico Hospital medical team, administered life-saving measures that were reportedly successful before he was transported by ambulance to UNMH at approximately 11:47 PM.
Despite continued treatment at UNMH, Gonzales died at approximately 7:43 AM on July 19.
The MDC Public Information Officer, Daniel Trujillo, stated that Gonzales had no known next of kin.
The Bernalillo County Sheriff’s Office is investigating the incident. In accordance with standard protocol, the MDC Office of Professional Standards also has opened an investigation.
The New Mexico Office of the Medical Investigator will determine the official cause and manner of death.
Discover more from ABQ RAW
Subscribe to get the latest posts sent to your email.