An inmate who was convicted of a homicide in Kansas City has been discovered dead in his cell at a prison in Hutchinson.
The Kansas Department of Corrections made an announcement on Monday, Oct. 21, stating that Kevyn Lopez, a 26-year-old inmate at the Hutchinson Correctional Facility, has passed away. He was discovered unresponsive in his cell that morning, and despite efforts to save his life, they were unfortunately unsuccessful.
Lopez’s cause of death is still pending the results of an independent autopsy, according to corrections officials. When an inmate dies in Department of Corrections custody, the agency and the Kansas Bureau of Investigation conduct a thorough investigation. As of now, the investigation into this death is still ongoing.
Law enforcement officials have stated that Lopez had been in prison for almost 8 years due to a voluntary manslaughter conviction in Wyandotte County. They also mentioned that his most recent disciplinary reports were filed on Wednesday, citing misuse of state property and arson.
In November 2020, authorities from the Pueblo Police Department apprehended Lopez when the vehicle he was traveling in was pulled over at the intersection of 10th and Hudson St. During the stop, it was discovered that Lopez, who was a passenger, had an outstanding warrant for murder. Meanwhile, the driver was arrested for driving under the influence.
According to court documents, Lopez admitted guilt to charges of voluntary manslaughter, criminal discharge of a firearm, aggravated assault, and aggravated endangering a child in May 2021. His sentencing took place in June 2022.
There has been no additional information disclosed.
