An inmate at the Sheriff Perry Hall Inmate Detention Facility died early Friday morning, just hours after being arrested for driving under the influence following a single‑vehicle crash in Palm Coast. Authorities say the man’s blood alcohol content measured more than four times the legal limit, and multiple investigations are now underway to determine what led to his sudden death.
The incident began shortly after sunrise Thursday, when Flagler County Sheriff’s Office deputies were dispatched to the intersection of Corporate Drive North and Palm Coast Parkway to investigate a vehicle that had left the roadway and struck a commercial building. The driver, identified as Vadim Valenteychik, 54, of Palm Coast, told deputies he had driven over the curb, through nearby bushes, and into the structure.
Deputies immediately noted signs of severe intoxication. According to the arrest report, Valenteychik emitted a strong odor of alcohol, struggled to maintain his balance, and swayed noticeably while speaking with deputies. After completing the crash investigation, deputies transitioned to a DUI investigation and attempted to conduct field sobriety exercises. Those exercises were halted almost immediately due to safety concerns, as Valenteychik was unable to stand without stumbling.
Inside the vehicle, deputies found a large beer can on the driver’s side floorboard. Valenteychik was arrested on charges of DUI and DUI with property damage, and he was issued a citation for possession of an open container of alcohol.
Because of his level of impairment, Valenteychik was transported to a local hospital for medical clearance before being taken to jail. While at the hospital, deputies administered two breath tests. The first registered a 0.325% BAC, and the second a 0.340% BAC — both more than four times the legal limit of 0.08%. Medical staff cleared him more than six hours later, and he was transported to the Sheriff Perry Hall Inmate Detention Facility for booking.
Once inside the jail, Valenteychik was placed in a single‑person cell. Detention deputies conducted routine checks throughout the night. Shortly after 6 a.m. Friday, a deputy entered the cell and found Valenteychik unresponsive. Deputies and on‑site medical staff immediately began lifesaving measures, including CPR and the use of an automated external defibrillator, while awaiting Flagler County Fire Rescue. FCFR paramedics later pronounced him deceased.
Sheriff Rick Staly has requested the Florida Department of Law Enforcement conduct an independent investigation into the in‑custody death. Once FDLE completes its review, the Sheriff’s Office will conduct its own internal investigation to ensure all policies and procedures were followed. A clinical medical review is also underway by the jail’s contracted medical provider, as required under the county’s agreement.
Court and Detention Services Chief Dan Engert said the case reflects the medical risks associated with extreme intoxication.
“Sadly, it is not uncommon for local jails to house inmates with significant health issues related to illicit drug and alcohol use,” Engert said. “Although he was medically cleared by a local hospital, and the exact cause of Mr. Valenteychik’s death is yet to be determined, research has shown that blood alcohol content levels between 0.30% and 0.35% have an extremely high risk of coma or death. Losing a loved one is never easy, especially so unexpectedly. We extend our deepest sympathy and condolences to his family and friends during this difficult time.”
Public records show Valenteychik had a prior DUI conviction in 2015, which resulted in a six‑month suspension of his driver’s license. His latest arrest added to a history of reckless driving behavior that authorities say placed both himself and the public at risk.
The official cause of death will be determined by the Medical Examiner’s Office. FDLE’s investigation is ongoing.