News Summary
Alfredo Hernandez, a 66-year-old man awaiting trial for a cold case murder, died in a San Diego County jail after experiencing severe health complications. His health had deteriorated, leading to hospitalization and, ultimately, death due to sepsis and pneumonia. This incident has prompted an investigation into the healthcare conditions in detention facilities, emphasizing the need for improved medical care for inmates, especially those with pre-existing health issues. The case also highlights the impact of long-unsolved crimes and the ongoing pursuit of justice for victims.
San Diego
Alfredo Hernandez, a 66-year-old man from El Salvador, died in a San Diego County jail while awaiting trial for a cold case murder. Hernandez passed away on November 26, 2024, after being admitted to a local hospital due to health complications, revealing significant concerns about the conditions during his incarceration.
Hernandez had been taken into custody on September 23, 2024, following his extradition from El Salvador. He was wanted in connection with a murder case dating back to August 1991, when Terri Bistodeau, a 39-year-old woman, was found dead in her bedroom in the Emerald Hills neighborhood of San Diego. The San Diego Police Department linked Hernandez to the murder through DNA evidence, and he was formally charged in 2021.
Before his death, Hernandez began experiencing severe health issues, notably shortness of breath, on November 15, 2024. He was transferred to a hospital for treatment and later placed in the Intensive Care Unit (ICU) due to the worsening of his condition. Just over a week later, officials confirmed that Hernandez had died in the hospital before 9:15 a.m.
An autopsy conducted by the San Diego County Medical Examiner’s Office determined that the cause of death was sepsis resulting from methicillin-resistant staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) pneumonia. The medical examiner ruled the manner of death as natural. Following Hernandez’s death, the sheriff’s homicide unit initiated an investigation to examine all circumstances surrounding it, which continues to be ongoing.
Both the Consulate General of El Salvador and the Citizens’ Law Enforcement Review Board have been notified of the case, acknowledging the importance of an investigation into Hernandez’s death while in custody.
In the years leading up to his arrest, Hernandez had been living in El Salvador while the unsolved case lingered in the San Diego area. The murder of Terri Bistodeau remained cold for decades until advancements in DNA testing led investigators to Hernandez. Prior to his passing, he reportedly confessed to the crime during interviews with investigators, further solidifying the case against him.
The case of Alfredo Hernandez raises important questions about health care access and treatment in detention facilities, prompting further investigations into the conditions of inmates with pre-existing health issues. The ongoing investigation by the sheriff’s homicide unit seeks to clarify any lapses in care or protocol that may have contributed to the outcome of Hernandez’s case.
This incident not only highlights the tragic end for a man facing serious charges but also emphasizes the long-standing impact of unresolved criminal cases and the pursuit of justice for victims like Terri Bistodeau. The updates surrounding Hernandez’s death may also bring renewed attention to the necessity for adequate healthcare services for inmates and the legal responsibilities of correctional institutions.
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Additional Resources
- Fox 5 San Diego: Cause of Death for Alfredo Hernandez
- Wikipedia: Jail Health Care
- Times of San Diego: Suspect in Killing of Emerald Hills Woman
- Google Search: Alfredo Hernandez San Diego
- San Diego Union-Tribune: Human Rights Body Finds Border Agents’ Actions Constituted Acts of Torture
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Health Care
- News 4 San Antonio: Family Gathers for Memorial on Anniversary of Kaitlin Hernandez’s Death
- Google News: Alfredo Hernandez Death Investigation
Author: STAFF HERE CORONADO
The Coronado Staff Writer represents the experienced team at HERECoronado.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Coronado, San Diego County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as the Coronado Island Film Festival, productions at Lamb’s Players Theatre, community workshops at John D. Spreckels Center, and iconic celebrations at Hotel del Coronado. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Coronado Chamber of Commerce and Visit Coronado, plus leading businesses in hospitality, dining, and tourism that drive the local economy. As part of the broader HERE network, including HERESanDiego.com, HEREHuntingtonBeach.com, HERELongBeach.com, and HERELosAngeles.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Southern California's dynamic landscape.
