Man dies in Amarillo police custody, investigation ongoing

A man died Sunday while in the custody of the Amarillo Police Department, according to a report from Texas Attorney General Ken Paxton.

The report identifies the man as Ruben Ramirez, who died less than an hour after being taken into APD custody. A medical examiner’s report is pending, and the official cause of death will be determined following an autopsy.

According to the death report, APD officers were called on Feb. 8 to a residence in the 300 block of North Hughes in response to a report of a person believed to be under the influence of alcohol or drugs. When officers arrived, they attempted to detain Ramirez, who police said became hostile.

Police reported that after Ramirez was restrained, he became unresponsive. Officers began resuscitative efforts, which were later continued by emergency medical services. Those efforts were unsuccessful, and Ramirez was pronounced dead at the scene.

APD reported that a preliminary autopsy indicated Ramirez tested positive for THC, amphetamines, methamphetamines, and alcohol. The report also noted that no external traumatic injuries were observed. Medical conditions identified included cardiomegaly, hypertension, obesity, and hepatic steatosis.

The investigation remains ongoing as officials await the final autopsy results.