Summary
Three people held by Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) died over four days in late February and early March 2026. These deaths have raised concerns about medical care and conditions in ICE detention facilities. The number of deaths in ICE custody has been increasing, along with a rise in the number of people detained.
Key Facts
- Three detainees died in ICE custody in late February and early March 2026.
- At least 11 people have died in ICE custody in 2026.
- The number of detainees in ICE has reached over 68,000, a significant increase from previous years.
- The deaths have sparked worries about healthcare and oversight in ICE facilities.
- Alberto Gutiérrez-Reyes, a Mexican national, died in California, reportedly after being denied medical care for existing health conditions.
- Pejman Karshenas Najafabadi, an Iranian national, died in Mississippi after suffering a cardiac arrest during ongoing medical treatment.
- Emmanuel Damas, a Haitian national, died in Arizona, reportedly due to a severe tooth infection.
- ICE is required to report detainee deaths within 48 hours, but there are concerns about delays in reporting.
