MDC inmate dies in custody

Digital Assignment Editor

ALBUQUERQUE, N.M. —

The Bernalillo County Metropolitan Detention Center is currently investigating another inmate death while in custody.

The individual was identified as James Gonzales, 45, who was booked into MDC on July 11, 2026.

At 11:12 p.m. on July 17, a medical emergency code was called regarding an inmate in medical distress.

Both MDC and UNM Hospital’s medical team promptly responded and administered live saving measures, which were successful.

At approximately 11:47 p.m., Gonzales was transported to UNM by ambulance. Despite treatment, Gonzales was pronounced deceased two days later at 7:43 am. on July 19.

Officials say Gonzales had no next of kin.

The official cause and manner of death will be determined by the Office of the Medical investigator (OMI)

BCSO is investigating the incident. The incident is also under investigation by the MDC Office of Professional Standards.