The Hillsborough County Sheriff’s Office is conducting a death investigation following the passing of an inmate at the hospital.
On June 2, 2025, at approximately 10:45 p.m., John Esler, 71, an inmate at Falkenburg Road Jail, was found in medical distress inside his cell. He was taken to the jail’s medical unit, where it was determined he needed to be transported to Tampa General Hospital.
His condition declined throughout the morning, and he was pronounced deceased shortly after 3:23 p.m. on June 3, 2025.
The Medical Examiner’s Office will determine the official cause of death. Esler’s next of kin has been notified.
The investigation is ongoing. The Public Affairs Office will provide any further updates.
