In-custody death at San Mateo County Correctional Facility in March ruled suicide

On Friday, March 15, at approximately 3:16 p.m., correctional officers assigned to the Maguire Correctional Facility discovered Bergner unresponsive in his cell. A routine cell check had just recently been conducted on the General Population pod where he was housed. Correctional Officers immediately began administering CPR and lifesaving measures until paramedics arrived a short time later. Despite their efforts, Bergner died at the facility.

“Suicide has a profound impact on us all and we extend our deepest sympathies to Mr. Bergner’s loved ones during this time,” Sheriff Christina Corpus said. “While it is difficult for us to share these deeply personal findings, it is because of our commitment to transparency that we share them with the community. Our commitment to the well-being and safety of those in our custody continues to be one of our highest priorities.”

Another in-custody death occurred in January and the inmate, Anthony Harding, 23, was determined to have suffered a seizure that was due to complications of an opioid withdrawal, San Mateo County sheriff’s officials said.

Harding died on the morning of Jan. 14 after a staff nurse in a detox unit at the jail noticed he had difficulty breathing. First responders arrived but Harding died shortly afterward.

The coroner’s report determined that chronic abuse of fentanyl was a factor in his death, according to the Sheriff’s Office.

If you or someone you know may be considering suicide, contact the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline at 988 (En Español: (888) 628-9454; Deaf and Hard of Hearing: (800) 799-4889) or the Crisis Text Line by texting HOME to 741741.