This browser does not support the Video element.
Investigation continues into death of man found in patrol car
Eric Valencia, 37, was found dead in an unlocked Azusa police cruiser days after being released from custody for a DUI. ·
AZUSA, Calif. - The Azusa Police Department continues to face intense scrutiny following the discovery of a man’s body inside a parked patrol vehicle.
The case has sparked a multi-agency investigation into department protocols and the final moments of 37-year-old Eric Valencia.
What we know:
Valencia was released from the Azusa jail on March 23 after being held on suspicion of DUI and child endangerment, authorities said.
Following his release, surveillance video shows Valencia walking to the front of the station, looking around, and eventually entering the rear door of patrol car number 37, which had been left unlocked for maintenance.
PREVIOUS COVERAGE: Family demands answers after missing man found dead in Azusa police car
He remained undiscovered for three days until a police employee moved the vehicle for a car wash on the morning of March 26.
Police confirmed Valencia had a working cell phone with him that was charged and capable of making 911 calls, but records show no outgoing calls were made during the time he was in the vehicle.
This browser does not support the Video element.
New details in death of man found in Azusa police car
The family of 37-year-old Eric Valencia is seeking transparency from the Azusa Police Department after he was found dead in a parked patrol vehicle just days after his birthday.
What we don't know:
The exact cause and manner of Valencia's death is unknown, pending an autopsy by the Los Angeles County Department of Medical Examiner.
It's unclear why Valencia decided to go inside the vehicle or why he did not attempt to signal for help or exit the car once inside.
While the vehicle was unlocked from the outside, investigators have not yet detailed whether the internal door handles were disabled, as is common in many patrol units.
What they're saying:
"That is the million-dollar question that we all want to know. What his intentions were, what was going through his mind," said Azusa Police Chief Rocky Wenrick.
Addressing accusations from the family that officers may have had a grudge against Valencia, Wenrick stated, "We've had multiple contacts with them. We've never had any issues either way. I'm hoping we'll be able to provide the family with closure."
Family members remain distraught, with one stating, "He was pronounced deceased here, you know, in front of the police station. Doesn't make any sense to any of us."
az
This browser does not support the Video element.
Man found dead in Azusa police car
Authorities confirmed the man was not in custody and entered the vehicle without anyone knowing.
What's next:
The Los Angeles County District Attorney’s Office and the Department of Medical Examiner are conducting simultaneous investigations.
Additionally, the Azusa Police Department has retained the JL Group, a private investigative firm, to perform an independent probe into why the vehicle was left unsecured.
Results from the toxicology reports and a deep dive into Valencia’s phone records are expected to be the next major developments in the case.
The Source: This report is based on exclusive interview footage and surveillance video provided to FOX 11, featuring direct statements from Azusa Police Chief Rocky Wenrick to FOX 11's Gigi Graciette on March 31, 2026. Information regarding the timeline and department response was gathered from official police statements and direct quotes from the Valencia's family and friends during a press conference.