GCSO Jail inmate declared deceased (Updated Release)

NEWS RELEASE                                                      
For Immediate Release Date: April 19, 2021 Time: 10:15 AM

On Sunday April 18, 2021, shortly after 5 a.m., Oscar Canas (DOB :05/02/01) was discovered to be non-responsive in his cell. The discovery was made during normal breakfast service. Steps were immediately taken by the Deputies on duty, including CPR, to revive Mr. Canas. Glenwood Fire was notified and their EMTs arrived shortly thereafter. They took over attempts to revive Mr. Canas. When all attempts failed, Mr. Canas was determined to be deceased. The Garfield County Coroner was notified.

Mr. Canas had been housed at the Garfield County Jail for 201 days. As an inmate, Mr. Canas was offered the opportunity to be vaccinated against COVID 19 on April 15, 2021. He received his vaccination. Mr. Canas was also taking additional medications for addiction treatment. The Garfield County Sheriff’s Office subcontracts medical services to an outside party. There is a full-time medical staff on duty at the Jail 24 hours a day, 7 days per week to respond to the inmate’s needs and assure they receive proper medical attention.

Regular security checks were made throughout the night with visual checks on all inmates, at regular intervals, in compliance with Garfield County Standard Jail Operational procedures.

There were no identified causes for Mr. Canas’ death. We are waiting for the toxicology results from the Coroner’s Office. This could take several weeks. The case remains open pending the final report of the Garfield County Coroner and appropriate notification of next of kin.

The Garfield County Sheriff’s Office extends their thanks to the Glenwood Springs Fire Department for their rapid response.