Man, 28, dies while in custody on Rikers Island; 16th death at jail this year

NEW YORK — Another inmate has died on Rikers Island, the New York City Department of Correction said Saturday, the 16th prisoner to die in custody this year. Erick Tavira, 28 died at the George R. Vierno Center on the island about 2:15 a.m., said DOC officials who did not disclose the circumstances of his death. An autopsy has been slated to determine how Tavira died. The state Attorney General and the city Department of Investigation will also be launching probes into his death. “Our deepest condolences go out to Mr. Tavira’s family, friends and loved ones in their time of grief,” DOC Commiss...