Rafael Solis
Rafael Solis, 38, drove 18-wheelers on long-haul trips and was the father of two sons, whom his mother says he always provided for. He died on February 14, 2009, while held at the Webb County Jail in Laredo, Texas, after being taken into custody by Webb County police three days earlier. The county coroner ruled his death a homicide, saying the jailers' actions asphyxiated him. The jailers have said he was experiencing alcohol withdrawal and that they were dressing him for hospital transport, but his mother, Maria Escamilla, disputes this, citing official reports that he was restrained, beaten and stomped. Seven jailers have appealed a ruling that they must stand trial, and no one has been criminally charged.
Cause of death, as reported: Killed by staff (disputed; neglect alleged). The Webb County coroner ruled the death a homicide, saying jailers' actions asphyxiated him; the jailers say he was in alcohol withdrawal and they were dressing him for hospital transport, while his mother Maria Escamilla says official reports show he was restrained, beaten and stomped.
Reported by: Webb County coroner (medical examiner or coroner); Webb County jailers (the agency that held him); his mother, Maria Escamilla (family or their lawyers).
Lawsuit: His mother pursued a lawsuit against seven Webb County jailers, who have sought to avoid trial on immunity grounds, and no settlement or award has been reported.