The victim was identified as John Price, 49, who was accused of leading a drug ring in Queens. He was being held at the Eric M. Taylor Center on Rikers Island.
According to the New York City Department of Correction, Price complained about his health to a correction officer at around 5:40 PM on Saturday. He was subsequently transported to Elmhurst Hospital for treatment but died just a few hours later.
Mayor Zohran Mamdani confirmed that an investigation has been launched, emphasizing the need for transparency in clarifying the cause of death, similar to how shootings resulting in civilian deaths must be thoroughly examined.
Department of Correction Commissioner Stanley Richards stated that the safety and health of those in custody are the highest priority, and the department is coordinating with oversight agencies to investigate the incident.
Court records show that Price was arrested in 2024 in connection with the trafficking of cocaine, heroin, and fentanyl in the Jamaica neighborhood of Queens. He was identified as a suspect with a complex criminal record and was scheduled to appear in court on April 14.
Earlier, on March 26, another man, 39-year-old Barry Cozart, also died while being held at the George R. Vierno Center within the same Rikers Island complex. The news of another victim passing away while in custody has caused a public outcry.
Cozart was arrested on burglary charges and was awaiting trial, with a court appearance scheduled for May 12.
Two consecutive deaths in a short period continue to increase pressure on the New York jail system, especially following reactions to the video of a handcuffed individual being abused, where the facility has faced years of criticism regarding detention conditions and medical care.
