Medical Examiner rules hanging death in jail a suicide

by Eliza Bethalper | May 29, 2026 8:07 pm

East County News Service

May 29, 2026 (San Diego) – On May 27, the San Diego County Sheriff revealed that the Medical Examiner’s office has ruled Grant Parker’s death a suicide. He was arrested February 15 on charges of murder and assault for fatally stabbing a man in downtown San Diego.

Parker, 34, was found hanging in his cell at the San Diego Central Jail on March 8. According to a Sheriff’s media release, deputies were performing their routine duties when they discovered Mr. Parker hanging inside his assigned cell. He was housed alone. Upon observing the situation, the deputies immediately activated 9-1-1, requested assistance from the facility’s medical staff, and began life-saving measures.

Paramedics and the San Diego Fire Department assumed life-saving measures upon their arrival, and Parker was transported to a local hospital. Despite all efforts, he was pronounced deceased at the hospital two days later.

The San Diego Sheriff’s Office extends sympathies to the decedent’s family and all those affected by his passing. A Sheriff’s Family Liaison Officer will continue to support the family.

The Citizens’ Law Enforcement Review Board was notified regarding the incident. As is the protocol for all in-custody deaths, the Sheriff’s Homicide Unit responded and is conducting an investigation.

Source URL: https://eastcountymagazine.org/medical-examiner-rules-hanging-death-in-jail-a-suicide/