(L.A.) Cuauhtemoc Tello, 49, Died in a Parking Lot

Case Number: 2022-10087

Los Angeles County is reporting the death of a 49-year-old Hispanic male that occurred in a parking lot.

The coroner’s office has identified the man as Cuauhtemoc Tello.

Manner of Death: Accident

Cause of Death A: Drowning

Cause of Death B: Multiple Drug Intoxication

RIP CUAUHTEMOC TELLO (October 18, 1972 – September 23, 2022)

Formal pronouncement of death was made on Friday at 12:32 a.m.

The decedent’s forename is Aztec. He is likely from Mexico.

Secondary drowning, sometimes referred to as dry drowning or parking lot drowning, is a rare but potentially fatal medical condition that occurs when water is inhaled past the vocal cords and enters the lungs. Secondary drowning is very rare. The affected person will appear fine immediately after the incident, but over time the water in the lungs will cause swelling or edema. This swelling will eventually restrict the lungs ability to exchange oxygen to and from the blood causing a drop in oxygen levels. A drop in oxygen levels will reduce heart rate, affect brain activity, and can eventually lead to death.

The symptoms of secondary drowning can appear up to twenty-four hours after a water exposure. There are many signs and symptoms of secondary drowning, some of the most common ones presented include:

Persistent coughing
Chest pain or discomfort
Fatigue
Sudden changes in behavior
Fever
Shortness of breath

These symptoms can be difficult to diagnose since most individuals, especially children, are typically exhausted after extended time in the pool. This is why it is important to be aware of any water inhalation. If you notice someone exhibiting these symptoms but there was no report of water inhalation it is a good idea to ask the individual if they might have inhaled water.