An investigation is currently underway into the in-custody death of a man on Sunday.

Hector Ruiz-Santos, 42, Patterson, LA, was arrested on October 9, 2023, at 12:10 am for battery on a police officer, resisting a police officer with force-non aggravated, and disturbing the peace-violent and tumultuous manner. 

On October 8th, 2023, at approximately 11:46 pm, deputies were dispatched to a residence in Patterson in reference to a disturbance in progress. Upon arrival, the deputies made contact with Ruiz-Santos and through the investigation, he was placed under arrest for disturbing the peace-violent and tumultuous manner.

Ruiz-Santos was taken into custody, placed in the back seat of the patrol unit, and transported to the St. Mary Parish Law Enforcement Center for booking.

Upon arrival at the SMPLEC, it was discovered that Ruiz-Santos was unresponsive. CPR was administered and Acadian was dispatched to the scene. Life-saving efforts were unsuccessful.

An investigation into this incident is ongoing. Further details will be released as they become available.

Det. Lt. David Spencer

Public Information Officer

St. Mary Parish Sheriff's Office