Death of California Man in Police Car Raises Questions

A California man was discovered deceased in the back seat of a police vehicle a few days after his release from custody. The details surrounding his death are unclear, prompting his family to demand explanations from local officials.

“He was pronounced dead right outside the police station. It makes no sense to any of us,” a family member stated.

Eric Valencia, 37, had been arrested earlier in the month on charges related to driving under the influence and child endangerment. He was subsequently released because there wasn’t enough evidence to hold him.

His family reported him missing since they couldn’t locate him. On March 26, Valencia was found unresponsive in the back of an out-of-service patrol car parked outside the Azusa Police Department.

According to Police Chief Rocky Wenrick, “It’s not unusual for emergency vehicles in our city to be parked for days or weeks.” He added that the vehicle was left unlocked and should have been secured.

Wenrick also mentioned that the department was unaware Valencia had entered the vehicle and emphasized that he was not in custody at that time.

The police department has since engaged an external investigative firm to undertake an independent inquiry, while also pursuing a criminal investigation regarding the incident.

“We have no idea what transpired here,” another family member remarked. “He was found dead in front of the police station. It’s just baffling.”

The Los Angeles County Coroner’s Office conducted an autopsy, but the cause of death is still undetermined.

The timeline of how long Valencia was inside the police car before being discovered remains uncertain.

Reportedly, camera footage shows Valencia entering the back seat of the unlocked patrol vehicle.

A press conference is expected to be held by the department later on Monday afternoon.