A man passed away at Las Palmas Medical Center in El Paso, Texas, on March 18. U.S. Border Patrol agents apprehended the man, a 40-year-old Mexican national, for illegal re-entry after a prior deportation in the pre-dawn hours of March 17.
Agents apprehended the individual near the Bridge of the Americas in El Paso, Texas, on March 17. Later that day, the individual was evaluated by medical personnel at the Border Patrol’s processing facility near Paso Del Norte Port of Entry. The individual was transported to Las Palmas Medical Center after being diagnosed with flu-like symptoms, liver failure and renal failure.
Medical staff at the hospital provided emergency care, but unfortunately the individual died later that day.
The following statement is attributable to Andrew Meehan, Assistant Commissioner for Public Affairs, U.S. Customs and Border Protection:
“Our thoughts and prayers go out to the family and his loved ones. CBP remains committed to ensuring the safe, humane and dignified treatment of those within the care of our custody. Consistent with CBP policy, CBP’s Office of Professional Responsibility has initiated a review. The Department of Homeland Security Office of the Inspector General and the Government of Mexico has been notified. At this time, CBP is not releasing the identity of the individual. CBP will release more details as available and appropriate, and will ensure an independent and thorough review of the circumstances.”