Kern Valley State Prison investigates inmate death as homicide

BAKERSFIELD, Calif. (KBAK/KBFX) -- An investigation is underway at Kern Valley State Prison following the homicide of inmate German M. Merino, who was attacked on March 7, 2025. The California Department of Corrections and Rehabilitation reported that the assault occurred in the dayroom and involved inmates Gilbert Garcia and Rodolfo Cortez.

Officers witnessed the assault at approximately 5:47 p.m. and promptly intervened, attempting life-saving measures and calling for emergency medical services. Despite these efforts, Merino was declared dead at 6:22 p.m. An improvised weapon was found at the scene, but no other inmates sustained injuries during the incident.

In light of the attack, the facility has initiated a round-the-clock threat assessment to support an ongoing investigation. Both Garcia and Cortez have been placed in restricted housing while the Investigative Services Unit and the Kern County District Attorney's Office conduct their inquiries. The Office of the Inspector General has also been made aware of the situation, and the Kern County Coroner will establish the official cause of death.

Merino, aged 37, was serving a life sentence without the possibility of parole for first-degree murder, having been transferred from Los Angeles County in 2012. In contrast, Garcia, 43, was serving an 11-year sentence for assault with a deadly weapon, while Cortez, 33, was serving a 24-year sentence for multiple offenses, including second-degree robbery and assault against a peace officer, both also from Los Angeles County.

The investigation continues as authorities seek to piece together the circumstances surrounding this tragic event within the prison.