ICE Confirms Immigrant Suicide at El Paso Detention Center Amid Ongoing Investigation
EL PASO, Texas — Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) officials reported that Victor Manuel Diaz, an immigrant detained at the Camp Montana East facility within the U.S. Army’s Fort Bliss military base, died last week from an apparent suicide. Authorities discovered Diaz unconscious and unresponsive in his room on Wednesday, January 14, and despite immediate life-saving efforts by contract medical staff, he was pronounced dead.
ICE released a statement confirming the circumstances surrounding Diaz’s death, noting that contract security personnel were the first to find him and promptly notified medical responders on site. The agency emphasized that an investigation into the incident remains ongoing to determine all relevant details.
This tragic event marks the second detainee death at the El Paso detention center in recent weeks, raising renewed scrutiny over conditions and oversight within immigration detention facilities. The Camp Montana East complex, located on the sprawling Fort Bliss military installation, houses numerous immigrants awaiting immigration proceedings or transfer.
The ICE detention center at Fort Bliss operates under contract with private security and medical providers, a model that has faced criticism from immigrant rights groups and lawmakers concerned about detainee safety and mental health services.
The Department of Homeland Security (DHS) has protocols in place to monitor detainee welfare, including suicide prevention measures, but advocacy organizations argue that overcrowding and limited access to mental health resources contribute to risks. According to the DHS Immigration Enforcement guidelines, detainees receive regular health screenings, yet incidents like Diaz’s death spotlight ongoing challenges.
Victor Manuel Diaz was originally from Nicaragua and had been held at the facility for an unspecified duration. ICE has not released further personal details, citing privacy considerations and the ongoing nature of the investigation.
The incident has drawn attention amid broader national debates over immigration detention practices and the treatment of immigrants in custody. The American Civil Liberties Union and other advocacy organizations have long called for reforms to reduce reliance on detention and improve conditions for those held.
As authorities continue to investigate, ICE has pledged transparency and cooperation with oversight entities to ensure accountability. The agency’s statement reiterated its commitment to detainee safety and the provision of appropriate medical and mental health care.
Those experiencing thoughts of suicide or emotional distress are encouraged to contact the Suicide & Crisis Lifeline at 988 or 1-800-273-TALK (8255) for immediate support.
The death of Victor Manuel Diaz underscores the complex challenges facing immigration enforcement agencies balancing security, humanitarian concerns, and detainee welfare within the United States’ detention system.
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