Naked man dies after fight with Rialto police; County sheriff launches investigation

The San Bernardino County Sheriff’s Department is conducting an investigation into the death of a man following a confrontation with Rialto police early Saturday morning.

On July 6 at approximately 12:11 a.m., Rialto Police received a 911 call reporting that a man, allegedly under the influence of alcohol and drugs, was attempting to break down a door in the caller’s home. The caller noticed that the man, whom they knew, was completely naked.

When officers arrived on the scene, they found the man partially clothed and lying face down on the ground. The man was reportedly uncooperative, speaking incoherently and moaning loudly. Approximately two minutes into their attempt to arrest him, the man suffered a medical emergency, lost consciousness and stopped breathing.

Officers immediately began life-saving measures, including cardiopulmonary resuscitation, use of an automated external defibrillator, and administration of naloxone. Despite their efforts, the man was pronounced dead at a local hospital at 1:16 a.m.

In accordance with department protocols and state reporting requirements, the San Bernardino County Sheriff’s Department Special Investigations Division is conducting an independent investigation into the incident.

General inquiries related to the arrest-related death may be directed to San Bernardino County Sheriff’s Detective Amy Bilbao at (909) 890-4904 or [email protected]. Inquiries related to the initial 911 call should be directed to Sergeant Richard Royce at (909) 841-0381 or [email protected].

All officers involved in the incident remain on duty while the investigation continues.

Witnesses can also report information anonymously through WeTip at (800) 782-7463.