San Diego, November 25, 2025
An 82-year-old inmate, Karim Talib, was found dead in his cell at San Diego Central Jail due to hypertensive atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease along with an acute kidney infection. Talib was awaiting a mental-competency hearing and faced charges including mayhem and elder abuse. Recent investigations raise concerns about inmate care in San Diego County jails, prompting the Sheriff’s Department to implement safety measures. The incident highlights ongoing issues regarding health and safety for incarcerated individuals in the region.
San Diego Inmate’s Death Deemed Natural After Autopsy
San Diego, CA — An 82-year-old inmate at San Diego Central Jail, Karim Talib, was found unresponsive in his cell on July 28, 2025. Despite efforts by deputies and paramedics, Talib was pronounced dead at the scene. An autopsy revealed that his death was due to hypertensive atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease complicated by an acute kidney infection. At the time of his death, Talib was facing charges including mayhem, assault with a deadly weapon, and elder abuse, and was awaiting a mental-competency hearing. The San Diego Sheriff’s Office has extended condolences to his family and all those affected by his passing.
Recent Inmate Deaths in San Diego County Jails
In recent years, several deaths have occurred in San Diego County jails, with causes ranging from natural causes to drug overdoses. For instance, in April 2023, 53-year-old Eddie Faulkner died at Vista Detention Facility due to acute fentanyl, gabapentin, and trazodone intoxication, along with contributing factors of hypertensive and atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease. Additionally, in November 2025, a 44-year-old man died at San Diego Central Jail; the cause of death is under investigation.
Oversight and Investigations
The San Diego County Sheriff’s Department has faced scrutiny over inmate deaths. A report by the California State Auditor highlighted that San Diego’s jails had a notably higher number of suicides and natural deaths compared to comparable counties, raising concerns about the adequacy of safety and medical care provided to inmates. In response, the Sheriff’s Department has implemented measures to improve safety and medical care within the facilities.
Conclusion
The recent death of Karim Talib underscores ongoing concerns regarding inmate health and safety in San Diego County jails. Continuous oversight and improvements are essential to ensure the well-being of individuals in custody.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What was the cause of Karim Talib’s death?
Karim Talib, 82, died due to hypertensive atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease complicated by an acute kidney infection.
What charges was Karim Talib facing at the time of his death?
At the time of his death, Karim Talib was facing charges including mayhem, assault with a deadly weapon, and elder abuse, and was awaiting a mental-competency hearing.
Have there been other recent deaths in San Diego County jails?
Yes, in April 2023, 53-year-old Eddie Faulkner died at Vista Detention Facility due to acute fentanyl, gabapentin, and trazodone intoxication, with contributing factors of hypertensive and atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease. Additionally, in November 2025, a 44-year-old man died at San Diego Central Jail; the cause of death is under investigation.
What actions has the San Diego County Sheriff’s Department taken in response to inmate deaths?
The San Diego County Sheriff’s Department has implemented measures to improve safety and medical care within the facilities in response to scrutiny over inmate deaths.
What is the current status of the investigation into the November 2025 death at San Diego Central Jail?
The cause of death for the 44-year-old man who died at San Diego Central Jail in November 2025 is under investigation.
Key Features of the Article
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Subject | Death of 82-year-old inmate Karim Talib at San Diego Central Jail |
| Cause of Death | Hypertensive atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease complicated by an acute kidney infection |
| Charges Faced | Mayhem, assault with a deadly weapon, elder abuse; awaiting mental-competency hearing |
| Recent Deaths in San Diego Jails | April 2023: Eddie Faulkner died due to acute drug intoxication; November 2025: 44-year-old man died, cause under investigation |
| Oversight Findings | San Diego jails had higher rates of suicides and natural deaths compared to comparable counties, raising concerns about inmate care |
| Department Response | Implemented measures to improve safety and medical care within facilities |
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