Buffalo, NY (WBEN) An inmate at the Erie County Holding Center died over the weekend.
Deputies say 46 year old Manuel Ortiz was found unresponsive in his cell just after midnight Saturday. Security and Correctional Health staff immediately commenced lifesaving efforts, which included CPR and the application of an AED. However, Ortiz was pronounced dead at 12:51 a.m.
The ECSO Investigative Services Unit responded for the investigation. The Office of the New York State Attorney General was notified and responded for the investigation. The New York State Commission of Correction was also notified. An autopsy was conducted Saturday morning; the results are pending.
Ortiz entered Erie County Sheriff’s Office custody on December 30, 2025 on attempted burglary, criminal mischief and criminal contempt. The investigation is ongoing.
Manuel Ortiz was found unresponsive in his cell Saturday
Manuel Ortiz was found unresponsive in his cell Saturday
