NEW YORK (WABC) — An investigation is underway after an inmate died while in custody at Rikers Island early Saturday morning.
A captain and officer conducting a tour around 12:30 a.m. discovered the man unresponsive in his cell at the George R. Vierno Center, according to the New York City Department of Corrections.
First responders attempted to resuscitate the man on scene, but he was pronounced dead just before 1 a.m.
“On behalf of the NYC Department of Correction, I extend my heartfelt condolences to the individual’s family, friends, and loved ones during this incredibly difficult time. Any loss of life in our custody is a tragedy, and we are committed to a full review of the circumstances surrounding this incident,” said NYC Correction Commissioner Lynelle Maginley-Liddie in a statement.
A medical examiner will determine the cause of the death.
———-
* Get Eyewitness News Delivered
* Download the abc7NY app for breaking news alerts
Submit a tip or story idea to Eyewitness News
Have a breaking news tip or an idea for a story we should cover? Send it to Eyewitness News using the form below. If attaching a video or photo, terms of use apply.
Copyright © 2025 WABC-TV. All Rights Reserved.