Raymondville, Texas — The U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) reported a record high number of deaths among detainees in its facilities in 2025. That year, 32 individuals died while in custody, marking the largest figure in over 20 years. As 2026 unfolds, the situation appears to be deteriorating, with at least six reported deaths in just the first three weeks. This alarming trend raises concerns about the systemic issues within ICE, including healthcare provision and detainee treatment.
By April 25 of last year, the number of in-custody deaths had not yet reached six. If early indications continue, ICE could face around 120 deaths by the end of this year, a staggering increase. Advocates and families of the deceased claim many of these fatalities stem from inadequate medical care. Reports indicate that since October 2025, ICE has ceased covering third-party medical treatments, leaving many detainees without necessary care.
In addition to medical neglect, some of the deaths have been classified as suicides, possibly linked to insufficient mental healthcare and supervision. The detained population has surged recently, ballooning from under 40,000 in January 2025 to over 73,000 today.
On January 3, a 55-year-old Cuban detainee, Geraldo Lunas Campos, died at the Camp East Montana detention facility on Fort Bliss in El Paso. He had been legally admitted to the U.S. in 1996 but was ordered removed by an immigration judge in 2005. Initially, ICE reported that he died from “medical distress” following a struggle with officials. Emerging details suggest that his death may be labeled a homicide pending a toxicology report, with sources indicating asphyxia may have contributed to his demise.
Similarly, on January 5, Luis Gustavo Nunez Caceres, a 42-year-old from Honduras, passed away after being detained by ICE. He was hospitalized due to complications from chronic heart failure. Reports show that his medical situation deteriorated while in custody, raising questions about the treatment he received prior to his hospitalization.
Luis Beltran Yanez-Cruz, aged 68 and originally from Honduras, died on January 6. His family claims he suffered from untreated health issues while in ICE custody, an assertion that reflects broader issues of medical negligence within detention centers. His daughter criticized the agency for failing to address his symptoms in a timely manner.
In Philadelphia, a 46-year-old Cambodian immigrant, Parady La, succumbed to severe drug withdrawal on January 9. His family stated he communicated his need for medical assistance upon his detention, but did not receive timely help. After being found unresponsive, he was diagnosed with severe brain and organ failures, elevating concerns about the care provided in these facilities.
The deaths at the Camp East Montana facility alone raise significant alarms. On January 14, Victor Manuel Diaz, a 36-year-old from Nicaragua, was found unresponsive in what ICE described as a presumed suicide. This facility has faced scrutiny for conditions that some describe as inhumane, with accusations of abuse and neglect.
Another tragic incident involved Heber Sanchez Dominguez, a 34-year-old from Mexico, who was found hanging in his cell on January 14. Details surrounding his arrest and subsequent death are under investigation, with calls from the Mexican consulate for further information.
Human rights advocates continue to sound the alarm over the treatment of detainees in these facilities. Allegations have surfaced about a lack of medical care, overcrowding, and inadequate mental health services. Prominent officials, including Rep. Veronica Escobar (D-TX), have called for an investigation into conditions and practices at ICE facilities, seeking accountability as the agency faces rising criticism.
As the number of deaths continues to mount, it becomes increasingly clear that reforms within ICE and a reevaluation of its practices are urgently needed.