Albuquerque, NM (KKOB) — The cause of death for Rio Arriba County Sheriff Billy Merrifield has been ruled accidental, according to an autopsy report obtained by our news partners at KOAT. The report cites toxic effects of fentanyl and ethanol as contributing factors. Merrifield was found dead in his patrol unit at home on April 20, following a minor crash. His blood alcohol level was 0.071, and fentanyl was also detected.
