The Department of Corrections has confirmed a man died while in custody at Rikers Island.
Rubu Zhao, 52, was severely injured this past Sunday while being held for a second-degree murder charge in the death of his girlfriend, officials say. He was taken to a hospital and passed away on Tuesday.
DOC Commissioner Louis Molina released a statement saying in part, "The health and safety of everyone in our custody is a top priority and a full investigation is underway to determine how this unfortunate incident occurred."
This makes the second death in custody for 2023.