Boulder Paramedic Charged With Manslaughter In Patient Death

Edward Ray McClure, a Boulder paramedic, has been charged with manslaughter and forgery in connection with the December 2024 death of Jesus Lopez Barcenas, who died after McClure sedated and restrained him improperly. The incident began when Barcenas was encountered by police after reports of suspicious behavior, leading to a struggle and his handcuffing. McClure injected Barcenas with a sedative before conducting a proper medical assessment and placed him in a prone position on a gurney, contrary to American Medical Response protocols, while also using a spit sock. A forensic pathologist concluded Barcenas' death resulted from sudden cardiac arrest due to the combination of physical restraint, sedation, and methamphetamine toxicity. The district attorney's office cleared the officers' use of force but attributes the cause of death to McClure's reckless actions, who also provided inconsistent statements. The Boulder County DA emphasized their commitment to securing justice for Barcenas' family and the community.