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Azusa Today
By the People, for the People
Man Found Dead in Azusa Police Car Days After Release
Eric Valencia's death raises questions about police procedures after his arrest and release
Apr. 1, 2026 at 6:39pm
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Eric Valencia, a 37-year-old man, was found dead in the backseat of an Azusa police car three days after being released from custody. Valencia had been arrested on March 20 for driving under the influence and felony child endangerment, but was released on March 23 when the district attorney declined to prosecute pending toxicology reports. Surveillance footage showed Valencia entering the police car, but he was never seen leaving it. The cause of his death is still under investigation.
Why it matters
This incident has raised concerns about police procedures and transparency, as well as questions about Valencia's wellbeing and the circumstances surrounding his death. It highlights the need for thorough investigations and accountability when someone dies in police custody or on police property.
The details
According to Azusa Police Chief Rocky Wenrick, Valencia was arrested on March 20 for driving under the influence and felony child endangerment. His blood alcohol level was 'more than twice the legal limit' at the time. While in custody, Valencia was 'cared for, provided three meals a day, and was checked every 30 minutes for health and welfare concerns.' When the district attorney declined to prosecute the case pending toxicology reports, Valencia was released on March 23. Surveillance footage showed him walking out of the police station and getting into the backseat of a parked patrol car, but he was never seen leaving the vehicle. Valencia's body was discovered in the car by an employee preparing to wash it on March 26.
- Valencia was arrested on March 20.
- He was released from custody on March 23.
- Valencia's body was found in the police car on March 26 at 4:51 a.m.
The players
Eric Valencia
A 37-year-old man who was found dead in the backseat of an Azusa police car three days after being released from custody.
Rocky Wenrick
The Azusa Police Chief who provided details about Valencia's arrest, custody, and release.
Julia McCormick
Valencia's sister-in-law, who expressed the family's desire for answers about his death.
What they’re saying
“Come to find out that he was here in a car the whole time. The whole time. We want to know what happened. Please, please, we want answers.”
— Julia McCormick, Valencia's sister-in-law
What’s next
Investigators are working to determine the cause and manner of Valencia's death, and an independent firm has been hired to review the Azusa Police Department's policies and procedures to ensure they were followed.
The takeaway
This tragic incident highlights the need for thorough investigations, transparency, and accountability when someone dies in police custody or on police property. It raises questions about the care and treatment of individuals in police custody, as well as the procedures in place to ensure their safety and wellbeing.
