Eric Vigil
Eric Vigil, 40, of Las Vegas, New Mexico, died on November 1, 2021, after he was taken from the San Miguel County Detention Center to Alta Vista Regional Hospital, where he was pronounced dead. Investigators say he was beaten by other people held at the facility, and a criminal complaint says surveillance video shows a group entering his cell before a fight broke out. Another person held at the jail first reported that he had fallen, but staff found him unresponsive on the floor. According to the complaint, seven people have been charged in connection with his death. The county is investigating where guards were during the incident.
Cause of death, as reported: Killed by another person in custody (neglect alleged). Investigators say fellow inmates beat him to death, and the county is investigating where guards were during the attack.
Reported by: investigators; criminal complaint; Authorities, per arrest affidavits.