A shocking discovery in Azusa has left a family searching for answers after a man was found dead and decomposing in the back of a police patrol vehicle days after being arrested on suspicion of driving under the influence (DUI).
The man, identified as Eric Valencia, 37, was arrested by the Azusa Police Department on March 20 for DUI and felony child endangerment after officers determined his blood alcohol level exceeded twice the legal limit. Valencia was later released from custody on March 23 when prosecutors declined to file charges pending toxicology results.
Surveillance and body camera footage released by authorities show Valencia leaving the police station after his release and entering an unlocked patrol vehicle parked outside the station. Officials say that the vehicle was not checked or secured after he entered, and it remains unclear how long he was inside before being discovered.
Valencia’s body was found by a police employee preparing the vehicle for cleaning. Paramedics pronounced him dead at the scene. The cause of death has not yet been determined, and investigators have not disclosed whether Valencia was trapped in the car or how long he had been inside.
The family of Valencia has expressed shock and frustration. They reportedly filed a missing-person report following his release from custody and feel that authorities did not take the situation seriously. “We want answers,” said a family spokesperson. “No one should end up in a police car without anyone noticing, especially after being released from custody.”
The Azusa Police Department acknowledged that the vehicle should have been locked and secured but was not. The department has engaged an external firm to review the incident and has stated that the investigation, including the autopsy, is ongoing. No officers have been placed on leave at this time.
This case has drawn attention to procedures around police vehicle security and raised questions about accountability and safety. Authorities have urged the public to allow the investigation to proceed while promising transparency as more information becomes available.
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