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2nd man dies at Rikers Island jails in a week, NYC officials say
By
Brittany Kriegstein
Published Sep 4, 2025
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AP Photo / Ted Shaffrey
By
Brittany Kriegstein
Published Sep 4, 2025
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A man died at the Rikers Island jail complex Wednesday night, New York City Department of Correction officials said — the second man to die there in a week, and the 12th person to die in or shortly after being released from Rikers this year.
Officials said correction officers were called to the George R. Vierno Center around 7:50 p.m. while the man was having an apparent seizure. Medical staff responded, but he could not be revived and was pronounced dead at 8:35 p.m., according to the jail agency.
The correction department did not immediately release the man’s identity as officials worked to notify his family. They said they notified local and federal authorities of his death as required.
“The Department has tragically lost a person in our custody,” city Correction Commissioner Lynelle Maginley-Liddie said in a statement. “We share our deepest sympathies with his loved ones. Every aspect of this incident will be investigated.”
The man’s death comes after authorities said three other people died in DOC or NYPD custody in the last week. A Bronx resident died at Rikers’ West Facility on Saturday, and two men died in police custody Friday and Sunday, respectively.
And less than two weeks ago, yet another man died at Rikers, on Aug. 23, leading to the suspension of three jail staffers, officials said.
Authorities said they are investigating the deaths, including their causes, and have not released many details about the circumstances.
The number of people who have died in or shortly after being released from DOC custody this year — 12 — is more than double the five who died in those situations in all of 2024, city data shows.
This is a developing story based on preliminary information from jail officials and may be updated.
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Rikers Island
new york city
public safety
Brittany Kriegstein
Brittany Kriegstein covers all breaking news around New York City, with a focus on crime and gun violence. Got a tip? Email Brittany at [email protected].
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Gothamist is funded by sponsors and member donations
Gothamist is funded by sponsors and member donations
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