EL PASO, Texas (AP) – An immigrant from Nicaragua, identified as Victor Manuel Diaz, was found dead at a Texas immigration detention facility last week, prompting an ongoing federal investigation into the circumstances surrounding his death. Diaz was discovered unconscious on Wednesday at the tent complex located at Fort Bliss, a U.S. Army base in El Paso, as reported by Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE).
This facility has recently been the site of two tragic incidents. Earlier in the month, another detainee, Geraldo Lunas Campos, died during an attempt by staff members to prevent him from taking his own life. According to accounts from a fellow detainee, at least five officers were physically restraining Lunas Campos, with one reportedly applying pressure around his neck. The El Paso County Medical Examiner's Office's preliminary investigation indicated that Lunas Campos, aged 55, died as a result of asphyxia due to chest and neck compression, a finding likely to be classified as homicide.
Victor Manuel Diaz, 36, had been detained after being swept up in federal immigration enforcement operations in Minnesota on January 6, 2024, before being transferred to Texas. It was noted that Diaz entered the U.S. in March 2024, after which Border Patrol officers took him into custody. He was initially released on parole with a pending court date. However, following an August hearing that he did not attend, a judge ordered his removal from the U.S.
According to ICE, Diaz received a final order for removal on January 12, just two days prior to being found unconscious in his room. The agency has not disclosed additional information regarding the circumstances of Diaz’s death. Per agency protocol, ICE notifies Congress and releases public statements concerning all deaths occurring in custody.
The detention facility, known as Camp Montana East, has faced scrutiny regarding its treatment of detainees, especially in light of the recent deaths. ICE's continuing investigation aims to clarify the events leading to both Diaz's and Lunas Campos's deaths.
This troubling trend raises questions about the conditions and safety standards at immigration detention facilities, particularly those operated in military settings. Advocates for immigrant rights are calling for increased oversight and accountability to prevent further tragedies in the future.
