Rusk County Jail Inmate Dies Following Medical Emergency, State Report Claims

A 66-year-old inmate has died while in custody at the Rusk County Jail in Texas following a medical emergency, according to a state custodial death report.

The deceased, identified as Manuel Remeas Benavidez, was being held on a felony driving while intoxicated charge at the time of his death.

Timeline of Custody and Medical Care

According to the state report, Benavidez was transferred to the Rusk County Jail from a Texas Department of Criminal Justice medical facility on February 17, 2026.

The report indicates that Benavidez had multiple serious pre-existing health conditions. Due to these conditions, he was housed in a medical cell under the observation of jail medical staff.

On March 18, 2026, jail staff found Benavidez unresponsive in his medical cell.

Emergency Response and Outcome

Rusk County jail staff provided immediate emergency medical care, which included the administration of CPR and the use of an automated external defibrillator.

Emergency medical services subsequently transported Benavidez to a local hospital. He was pronounced dead the following day, March 19, 2026.

Investigation and Official Findings

Officials stated that the death is believed to be related to natural causes stemming from Benavidez’s pre-existing medical conditions.

The state custodial death report further noted that there were no signs of the following during his time in custody:

• Foul play
• Resistance
• Intoxication
• Suicidal behavior

A final autopsy report is currently pending to determine the official cause of death.