On June 27, 2023, at approximately 4:27 a.m., Sacramento Police Department patrol officers responded to multiple calls of a person possibly prowling in the 2500 block of 51st Avenue. One caller indicated they heard an unknown individual enter their backyard. Officers arrived on the scene and contacted a male adult in the area of the calls. The officers initiated a preliminary investigation. During the investigation, the male began experiencing an apparent medical emergency. Officers rendered emergency medical aid, including CPR. The Sacramento Fire Department arrived on the scene and transported the male to an area hospital, where he was pronounced deceased.

Due to the male having a medical emergency while detained by the officers, the department initiated a death-in-custody investigation. Homicide Detectives responded to the scene and worked closely with Crime Scene Investigators to determine the incident's circumstances. Detectives are in the early stages of this investigation. The officers did not use force against the male, nor was he handcuffed at any point during the encounter. Detectives are investigating the possibility that the male was involved in a vehicle collision before contact with the officers.

The Sacramento County Coroner's Office will release the individual's identity after the next of kin has been notified.

This incident is being investigated by the Sacramento Police Department's Homicide Unit, Internal Affairs Division, and Professional Standards Unit. The Office of Public Safety Accountability and the Sacramento County District Attorney's Office are providing oversight by monitoring the investigation. This incident falls under the City Council policy on video release. As a result, the video and audio associated with this incident will be released to the public within 30 days.

The Sacramento Police Department encourages any witnesses with information regarding this incident to contact the dispatch center at (916) 264-5471 or Sacramento Valley Crime Stoppers at (916) 443-HELP (4357). Callers can remain anonymous and may be eligible for a reward of up to $1,000. Anonymous tips can also be submitted using the free "P3 Tips" smartphone app.