Father of two who spent three days in an Azusa police car died of extreme heat, officials say

The Los Angeles County medical examiner has determined that Eric Valencia, a 37-year-old father of two, died of hyperthermia after spending three days locked in the back of an unlocked police SUV outside the Azusa Police Department. His death was ruled accidental.

Valencia was arrested on March 20 on suspicion of driving under the influence and child endangerment after being pulled over for driving without headlights. Police reported he had watery, bloodshot eyes and the car smelled of alcohol.

Two children, ages 3 and 11, were in the vehicle with him. His blood alcohol level was twice the legal limit.

He was released from custody on March 23 around 1 a.m. Surveillance video shows him walking to a parked patrol vehicle, getting into the back seat, and closing the door.

Law enforcement vehicles typically cannot be unlocked from the inside. His body was found three days later when a fleet maintenance crew was sent to wash the patrol cars.

Valencia's family attorney, Michael Carrillo, expressed shock and sadness, stating that Valencia suffered tremendously. The family is calling for an investigation into why police did not check the vehicle and whether Valencia was in stable condition upon release.

The autopsy did not include a toxicology screening, which the family says leaves significant unanswered questions.

Azusa Police Chief Rocky Wenrick stated that Valencia showed no signs of distress when released and that out-of-service vehicles are often parked for days or weeks awaiting equipment installation. Valencia's cellphone was found in working order, and he never called 911 for help.