Man Dies After Being Found Unresponsive in Detention Facility

Published on December 12, 2023

Mr. David Gerhard, 55, died on Dec. 12, 2023, after he was found unresponsive in his cell within the medical unit at the Arlington County Detention Facility.

Arlington County Sheriff’s Office deputies and medical staff began immediate resuscitation efforts until the arrival of Arlington County Fire & Rescue units. He was transported to Virginia Hospital Center where he was pronounced deceased.

Mr. Gerhard was being held in the Arlington County Detention Facility since Nov. 20, 2023, on Failure to Comply with Support Obligations and Contempt of Court.

Mr. Gerhard’s family was notified of his passing.

"We extend our condolences to the family of Mr. Gerhard during this difficult time," says Sheriff Jose Quiroz.

An autopsy will be conducted to determine cause of death by the Office of the Chief Medical Examiner.

Following standard procedure, the death is being investigated by the Arlington County Police Department. Anyone with information related to this investigation is asked to contact the Police Department’s Tip Line at 703-228-4180 or ACPDTipline@arlingtonva.us. To report information anonymously, contact the Arlington County Crime Solvers at 1-866-411-TIPS (8477).