Frank Valles, 50

Frank Valles, identified by the coroner's office as a 50-year-old white man, died Sunday, Nov. 6, two years after he was assaulted in the 500 block of Wall Street in downtown Los Angeles, according to Los Angeles County coroner's records.

LAPD Central Det. J. Thacker, who is handling the death investigation, said Valles sustained trauma during a fight in 2008.

According to coroner’s records, Valles was punched in the face, fell on the sidewalk and hit his head. He remained at a medical care facility in Downey until his death Nov. 6.

Authorities initially believed Valles' death was related to his assault injury, according to preliminary coroner's records. However, an autopsy determined his cause of death was natural.

The coroner's office said Valles died from gastrointestinal bleeding due to esophageal varices, or abnormal veins in the lower part of the esophagus.

His death is no longer ruled a homicide by the coroner’s office.

Anyone with additional information about the death of Frank Valles is asked to contact Det. Thacker at (213) 972-1256. Those wishing to remain anonymous can call Crime Stoppers at (800) 222-TIPS (800) 222-8477.
-- Los Angeles Times