Ryan Vandever, 50, Dies Following Custody Incident in Kelseyville, CA, Under Investigation
Ryan Vandever, 50, a resident of Colorado, tragically passed away on September 9, 2025, following an altercation with law enforcement at Kelseyville Community Park in California.
Deputies had responded to reports of Vandever acting erratically around noon. Medical services were already on the scene, but Vandever refused treatment and became combative with paramedics.
Within minutes of deputies arriving, Vandever’s condition worsened, and he became lethargic and unresponsive. Deputies restrained him, but after recognizing he was in medical distress, they removed the handcuffs. Medics performed CPR and rushed him to a nearby hospital, where he was later pronounced dead.
The Lake County District Attorney’s Office is overseeing the investigation into this in-custody death. Authorities confirmed that a small amount of suspected fentanyl was found in Vandever’s possession, but it remains unclear if naloxone, a medication used to reverse opioid overdoses, was administered by paramedics or deputies.
As the investigation continues, many questions remain about the circumstances surrounding Vandever’s final moments and the handling of medical distress during his arrest.
"Prayers for his family and loved ones," said one social media user, while others expressed their shock and sorrow at the tragic incident.
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