The Los Angeles County Medical Examiner says Eric Valencia died from hyperthermia, or overheating.
Several days before he was found dead, the 37-year-old was arrested in late March and booked for DUI and child endangerment. Valencia reportedly had a blood alcohol level more than twice the legal limit.
SEE ALSO: Bodycam video sheds new light on death of man whose body was found in Azusa patrol car
Bodycam video sheds new light on death of man whose body was found in Azusa patrol car
On March 23, the day of his release, surveillance footage shows Valencia getting into an unlocked, out-of-service patrol car parked outside of the police station.
Over the course of several minutes, the video shows Valencia opening the back door of the SUV, climbing inside and eventually shutting the door behind him. That was the last time police believe Valencia was seen alive.
His body was found three days later, and his family demanded answers.
"There were no signs of major trauma observed on Mr. Valencia, his body. Investigators learned that Mr. Valencia had been reported missing to the Azusa Police Department just hours before his discovery. Investigators also determined that Mr. Valencia had a functioning cellphone with him in the backseat of the patrol unit when he was discovered," Chief Rocky Wenrick said at a press conference in March.
Azusa police hired an independent investigator, but admitted the car should have been locked.
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