The youngest of the Menéndez brothers, Erik Menéndez, remains hospitalized and awaits a third operation, amid the serious health crisis that allowed him to leave the San Diego prison , where he is serving his sentence, and has led his lawyers to ask that the processes that could determine his permanent release be accelerated.
According to his stepdaughter Talia, Erik underwent two operations to repair complications from large kidney stones.
"Today Erik had his second surgery due to complications with both kidneys, which included multiple large stones," Talia said in a post on social media on July 24, 2025. He is currently "in pain and feeling nauseous, but is recovering."
"Because Erik is in prison, there are often complications and delays in medical care, so this continues to be a very stressful time for us, as you can imagine," added Talia, who is the biological daughter of Tammi Menendez, Erik's wife.
Although she assured that the surgery "was successful," Talia revealed that one more operation is still needed and thanked everyone involved for the support her family had received, starting with the doctors and prison staff, and including the general public.
Here is the full message
Today Erik had his second surgery due to complications with both kidneys having multiple large stones. Thankfully, his surgery was successful, though he will need a third surgery soon. Because Erik is in prison, there are often complications and delays with medical care, so this continues to be a very stressful time for us as you all can imagine.He's currently in pain and feeling nauseous, but is recovering.
We truly appreciate everyone's kind words, prayers, and support. Complications can happen but we're grateful to the CRT custody & medical staff who did their best during this difficult situation.
Will keep you all updated as we go, thank you for all of the prayers!
The Menéndez brothers' release from prison
Erik Menendez's health problems began last Friday. His attorney, Mark Garagos, told TMZ that the legal team is seeking to expedite the 54-year-old's release process, though it is unclear whether they are including his older brother, Lyle Menendez, in their efforts.
According to legal experts, the best option would be for California Governor Gavin Newsom to grant him or her a pardon, thanks to an application already underway. However, a new sentence and early release on bail are also possible. The outcome of all this is expected in the coming weeks.
