Obituaries

Governor issues statement on death of Officer Frank Salas

Frank Salas, a correctional officer at San Quentin Rehabilitation Center, passed away May 12, 2024.

Frank Salas wearing his correctional officer uniform at San Quentin Rehabilitation Center.
Frank Salas

On May 13, Governor Gavin Newsom issued the following statement regarding the death of San Quentin Rehabilitation Center Correctional Officer Frank Salas:

“As we remember Correctional Officer Frank Salas for his passionate and professional demeanor, Jennifer and I offer our deepest sympathies to his family, friends and co-workers during this time. We are grateful for his years of service to the people of California.”

On May 12, Officer Salas succumbed to a medical emergency while on duty at the San Quentin Rehabilitation Center.

Officer Salas, 68, had served in the California Department of Corrections and Rehabilitation since 1995. He spent his 29 years at the San Quentin Rehabilitation Center. He is survived by his wife and son.

In honor of Officer Salas, flags at the State Capitol and Capitol Annex Swing Space will be flown at half-staff.

“Salas was known for his cheerful and positive attitude. His passing is a great loss to everyone who had the pleasure of knowing him. We extend our sincerest condolences to his family and friends during this difficult time,” according to a statement issued by the institution.

Funeral service information is not yet available.


Read more tributes to staff and retirees who have passed away.

Follow CDCR on YouTubeFacebookX (formerly Twitter). Listen to the CDCR Unlocked podcast.

Related content

Samuel Aquino, retired registered nurse

Samuel Aquino, a retired registered nurse from California Institution for Men (CIM) in Chino, passed away June 9, 2026. Aquino…

Randy Miller, retired correctional officer

Randy Miller, a retired correctional officer from North Kern State Prison, passed away June 24, 2026. He began his career…

Salinas Valley State Prison mourns passing of Aldo Mandujano

Salinas Valley State Prison announced the passing of California Correctional Training and Rehabilitation Authority (CALCTRA) Custodian Supervisor Aldo Mandujano who…

Marshall Ladipo, retired licensed vocational nurse

Marshall Ladipo, a retired licensed vocational nurse from California Institution for Men, passed away June 12, 2026. Ladipo started her…

Jerison Lamb, retired correctional sergeant

Jerison Lamb, a retired correctional sergeant from California State Prison-Sacramento, passed away June 16, 2026. Services will be held July…

Honor guards from High Desert State Prison in Susanville and Federal Correctional Institution Herlong honored fallen officers during their 19th annual ceremony.

High Desert State Prison, FCI‑Herlong honor fallen officers

Staff from High Desert State Prison in Susanville joined their counterparts at the Federal Correctional Institution (FCI) Herlong to host…