Autopsy finds Cuban immigrant in ICE custody died of homicide due to asphyxia

Published: Thursday, January 22, 2026 at 12:33 am

Cuban Immigrant's Death in ICE Custody Ruled Homicide

WASHINGTON – An autopsy report released Wednesday has determined that a Cuban immigrant died of homicide while in the custody of U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE). Geraldo Lunas Campos, 55, died on January 3rd at the Camp East Montana detention facility in Texas. The autopsy, conducted by the El Paso County Medical Examiner's Office, concluded that the cause of death was asphyxia due to neck and torso compression.

The report details that Lunas Campos showed signs of a struggle, including abrasions and hemorrhages on his body. Witnesses reported that he was restrained by guards during an altercation. The report cited injuries consistent with physical restraint, including petechial hemorrhages in the eyelids and neck, which can be associated with intense strain.

ICE initially stated that Lunas Campos was attempting suicide and that staff attempted to save him. However, the autopsy report made no mention of a suicide attempt. The report did note the presence of prescription antidepressant and antihistamine medications, and that Lunas Campos had a history of bipolar disorder and anxiety.

Lunas Campos was among the first detainees sent to Camp Montana East, arriving in September after being arrested in New York. He had been legally admitted to the U.S. in 1996. ICE stated that he was arrested in July due to criminal convictions that made him eligible for removal. Court records show he was convicted in 2003 of sexual contact with a minor.

The Department of Homeland Security has not yet commented on the autopsy report.

BNN's Perspective: This case raises serious questions about the use of force and the conditions within ICE detention facilities. While the details are still emerging, the findings of homicide warrant a thorough investigation into the events leading up to Mr. Lunas Campos' death and a review of the protocols and training provided to detention staff. Transparency and accountability are crucial to ensuring the safety and well-being of those in government custody.

Keywords: ICE, immigration, detention, homicide, autopsy, asphyxia, Camp East Montana, Geraldo Lunas Campos, Cuban immigrant, death, restraint, guards, Department of Homeland Security, suicide, bipolar disorder, criminal convictions.

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