Mexico Pushes for Investigation of Migrant Deaths in U.S. Custody

In Mexico City, the rising number of migrant deaths linked to U.S. immigration enforcement has led Mexican President Claudia Sheinbaum to call for increased pressure on U.S. authorities to investigate these fatalities. She pointed out that 17 Mexican citizens have died in U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) custody or during ICE operations, emphasizing that Mexico has a duty to protect its citizens no matter where they are.

In response to the growing toll, Sheinbaum has directed Mexican diplomats to file complaints with state attorneys general and district attorneys throughout the United States. These complaints aim to initiate investigations into the deaths that have taken place in their jurisdictions. “We cannot ignore the Mexicans who have died,” Sheinbaum remarked after the latest incident, involving the shooting of 52-year-old Mexican national Lorenzo Salgado Araujo by ICE agents in Houston. A memorial now marks the spot where Salgado was killed.

Mexican authorities have traditionally filed protests through diplomatic channels while aiding affected families with legal support, documentation, and the return of remains to Mexico. However, the new strategy is an escalation from these past efforts.

To date, the intensified efforts have not led to significant outcomes. No prosecutions have been publicly confirmed in the 17 cases, despite Mexico’s appeals to various U.S. legal authorities, including the Department of Justice. Víctor Clark, a human rights advocate from Tijuana, noted that the Mexican government’s attempts seem largely procedural without tangible response.

Mexico’s legal stance faces challenges as it cannot directly file complaints in U.S. courts for these cases. Requests from Mexico hold slightly more weight than those from private citizens but do not guarantee action.

Since the second Trump administration began, at least 52 migrants, including 14 Mexicans, have died in ICE custody according to a report from Human Rights Watch. Additionally, nine people have died during ICE operations since 2025. Demonstrations have occurred, such as a July protest in San Francisco against fatal ICE actions.

While ICE claims all deaths are investigated thoroughly, critics argue the Trump administration does not pursue these cases effectively. Mexico has experienced limited response to its inquiries from legal authorities in the states where these deaths occurred. Mexican Foreign Secretary Roberto Velasco stated that only four states have acknowledged the demands.

The Florida attorney general’s office agreed with ICE that the death of 19-year-old Royer Pérez Jiménez at the Glades County Detention Center was a “presumed suicide.” Venturing into local jurisdiction responses, Ventura County, along with a few others, indicated evaluation of Mexico’s complaint; however, there was confusion as to the receipt of communication, as Ventura’s office denied receiving such letters.

The controversy also surrounds the private Adelanto ICE Processing Center in San Bernardino County. The facility, operated by the Geo Group, detains about 1,500 people, and at least four Mexican citizens have died there. A civil lawsuit has been filed alleging misconduct such as medical neglect and inadequate conditions. In response, a federal judge mandated ICE to improve services at Adelanto.

The Department of Homeland Security maintains that detainees receive adequate care. Mexico has pledged to explore all legal and diplomatic channels to address conditions in U.S. detention centers.

The death of José Guadalupe Ramos Solano at Adelanto, another recent case, reflects the ongoing struggle for justice. His widow, Antonia Tovar, spoke out, seeking justice for her husband and others detained, hoping his case would be the last.

The San Bernardino County district attorney’s office confirmed receipt of communications from Mexico regarding the deaths but no criminal charges have followed.

Reported by Times staff writers from Mexico City and Los Angeles, with contributions from correspondent Cecilia Sánchez Vidal.