News Summary
Alfredo Hernandez, a 66-year-old man extradited from El Salvador, died in a San Diego County jail. The autopsy revealed sepsis caused by MRSA pneumonia. Hernandez had a complex history involving a 1991 murder case. His death is under investigation by local authorities, raising concerns about inmate health protocols. His passing highlights challenges in international criminal justice and health care within detention facilities.
San Diego
Alfredo Hernandez, a 66-year-old man who was extradited from El Salvador, died while in custody at a San Diego County jail on November 26, 2024. An autopsy has determined that the cause of death was sepsis due to methicillin-resistant staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) pneumonia. The death has been officially classified as natural.
Hernandez had been in the United States since September 23, 2024, following his extradition in connection with a murder he allegedly committed in 1991. The victim of that crime was Terri Bistodeau, a 39-year-old woman found strangled in her bedroom on Geneva Avenue in San Diego.
Prior to his death, Hernandez experienced significant health issues. He first exhibited symptoms of shortness of breath on November 15, 2024, prompting his transfer to a nearby hospital. As his condition worsened, he was moved to the Intensive Care Unit (ICU) for more advanced medical care.
The San Diego County Medical Examiner’s Office conducted the autopsy, which confirmed the presence of sepsis stemming from MRSA pneumonia, a severe bacterial infection resistant to many antibiotics. The medical examination clarified that serous health complications led to his demise, which was categorized as a natural death due to medical conditions.
In the wake of Hernandez’s passing, the San Diego Sheriff’s homicide unit has launched an investigation into all circumstances surrounding his death. This inquiry is standard procedure for cases involving fatalities in custody, ensuring that every aspect is meticulously reviewed.
Both the Consulate General of El Salvador and the Citizens’ Law Enforcement Review Board have been notified of Hernandez’s death. Their involvement may assist in addressing any international concerns due to his extradition and residency status, as well as in respect to his rights and family interests.
Background on Alfredo Hernandez shows he was implicated in the murder of Terri Bistodeau, which occurred in 1991 when he was a fugitive. The case went cold for many years, but advancements in forensic technology eventually helped identify Hernandez as a suspect. Once apprehended, he was extradited to face justice in the United States.
The developments surrounding Hernandez’s extradition and subsequent death have underscored the complexities involved in international law, particularly concerning criminal justice and public safety. Authorities will continue to scrutinize cases of individuals under custody, particularly those with noted health concerns, to ensure that appropriate care is provided during their detention.
The investigation into Hernandez’s death will aim to provide answers regarding the immediate events that occurred during his time in the county jail and ensure that protocols and guidelines concerning inmate health are upheld.
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Additional Resources
- Fox 5 San Diego: Cause of Death for Alfredo Hernandez
- Wikipedia: Extradition
- NBC San Diego: Search On for Driver Who Killed Woman
- Google Search: San Diego County Medical Examiner
- CBS 8: Former San Diego Border Patrol Chief Faces Scrutiny
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Sepsis
- Times of San Diego: Suspect in Killing of Emerald Hills Woman Died of Pneumonia
- Google News: MRSA Pneumonia
Author: STAFF HERE SAN DIEGO WRITER
SAN DIEGO STAFF WRITER The SAN DIEGO STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HERESanDiego.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in San Diego, 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 Comic-Con International, San Diego County Fair, and San Diego Pride Festival. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the San Diego Regional Chamber of Commerce and United Way of San Diego County, plus leading businesses in biotechnology, healthcare, and technology that power the local economy such as Qualcomm, Illumina, and Scripps Health. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREAnaheim.com, HEREBeverlyHills.com, HERECostaMesa.com, HERECoronado.com, HEREHollywood.com, HEREHuntingtonBeach.com, HERELongBeach.com, HERELosAngeles.com, HEREMissionViejo.com, and HERESantaAna.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into California's dynamic landscape.
