Family, advocates hold vigil for man who died in DOC custody outside Bronx Hall of Justice
Pagan died Friday after he was found unresponsive in a holding cell at the Bronx Hall of Justice, just hours after appearing in court.
More Stories
A somber vigil was held outside the Bronx Hall of Justice, where loved ones, advocates and formerly incarcerated individuals gathered to remember 29-year-old Julian Pagan following his death while in custody.
Pagan died Friday after he was found unresponsive in a holding cell at the Bronx Hall of Justice, just hours after appearing in court. According to his attorney, Pagan was alert, engaged and showed no signs of a medical emergency during that court appearance.
Court records show Pagan was arrested in August 2025 on assault and harassment charges. Earlier this month, a bench warrant was issued after he allegedly failed to comply with court-ordered requirements.
Despite his legal troubles, family members said they want him remembered for the person they knew, rather than the circumstances surrounding his death.
"He was a great kid. Beautiful spirit," said his cousin, Jose. "He always wanted to give and help people. He made people laugh."
Pagan's father, Julio, said his son left a lasting impression on everyone he met.
"Everyone he met, he touched," Julio said. "With his outspoken attitude, he was just my partner. He was my partner."
Pagan's death marks at least the fifth death in New York City Department of Correction custody this year.
The New York State Attorney General's Office is investigating the case, while the Department of Correction says it is also conducting its own review into the circumstances surrounding Pagan's death.
