LANCASTER – An investigation is underway following the February 3, 2026, death of an incarcerated person at California State Prison, Los Angeles County (CSP-LAC), which officials are investigating as a homicide.
According to reports, staff discovered 49-year-old Wilbert Lucero unresponsive in his cell during a security check at approximately 8:40 p.m. Life-saving measures were immediately initiated, and 911 was activated. Paramedics pronounced Lucero deceased at 8:56 p.m.
Lucero’s cellmate, Jeremy Rakisits, along with incarcerated persons Ismael Marquez and Raymond Moreno, have been placed in restricted housing as the CSP-LAC Investigative Services Unit and the Los Angeles County District Attorney’s Office conduct an investigation. The Office of the Inspector General has also been notified.
Lucero had been incarcerated since December 13, 2005, after being sentenced by Los Angeles County to life with the possibility of parole for attempted first-degree murder with a sentencing enhancement for the use of a firearm. Rakisits, 29, was received from Los Angeles County on February 14, 2017, and is serving a life sentence with the possibility of parole for second-degree murder, with enhancements for firearm use and gang involvement.
Marquez, 48, also received from Los Angeles County on November 3, 2014, is serving a life sentence with the possibility of parole for first-degree murder as a second-strike offender, with enhancements for firearm use and a prior criminal threat conviction. Moreno, 42, arrived at CSP-LAC on March 11, 2024, and is serving a life sentence with the possibility of parole for first-degree murder with an enhancement for firearm use.
The investigation is ongoing, and further details are not currently available. It is possible the Los Angeles County District Attorney’s Office could file charges pending the outcome of the investigation. Analysts expect the CSP-LAC Investigative Services Unit will conduct interviews with staff and incarcerated individuals to determine the events leading to Lucero’s death. A possible next step is a review of security footage, if available.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the role of the Office of the Inspector General?
The Office of the Inspector General has been notified, indicating an independent review of the incident and the subsequent investigation will occur.
Where did the incarcerated individuals involved in this case originate?
Wilbert Lucero, Jeremy Rakisits, Ismael Marquez, and Raymond Moreno were all received from Los Angeles County.
How many staff members are employed at CSP-LAC?
CSP-LAC employs approximately 1,500 staff members.
What factors might contribute to violence within correctional facilities?
