Update: Death Investigation at San Diego Central Jail 

January 31, 2024 - San Diego County Sheriff’s Department officials report that on January 16, 2024, around 2:30 p.m., Sheriff's Homicide san diego county sheriff department logoinvestigators were notified 24-year-old Brandon Andrew Yates, an individual in Sheriff's custody, passed away at the San Diego Central Jail. We extend our sympathies to the Yates family and those affected by this death. A Sheriff's Family Liaison Officer will support the family as they deal with the loss of a loved one.

During their investigation, Homicide detectives developed probable cause to arrest 36-year-old Alvin McDonald Ruis, for Mr. Yates' death. Detectives arrested Mr. Ruis for 187(a) PC- Murder. Mr. Yates and Mr. Ruis shared a housing cell together.

Mr. Ruis was arrested on December 27, 2023, by the Chula Vista Police Department on the following charges: Domestic Violence, Willful Cruelty to a Child, Stalking, Burglary, Violation of a Court Order, Committing a Felony while out on Bail, and Violation of DV TRO. Mr. Ruis was a resident of Chula Vista at the time of his arrest.

As is the protocol for all in-custody deaths, the Sheriff's Homicide Unit responded and conducted a thorough investigation. The case has been sent to the District Attorney's Office for criminal proceedings. The cause of death will be determined by the Medical Examiner's Office.

To view the prior press release dated January 17, 2024, click here.

Source: San Diego County Sheriff’s Department

Related: San Diego County Sheriff Announces In-Custody Death of a 24-Year-Old Man in San Diego Central Jail