The death of a 55-year-old Cuban detainee in Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) custody is likely to be classified as a homicide, according to a medical examiner’s office in El Paso County, Texas. The detainee, identified as Lunas Campos, died on January 3, 2026, following a struggle with detention staff at Camp Montana East. An employee from the medical examiner’s office informed Campos’ daughter that the preliminary cause of death was asphyxia due to neck and chest compression, indicating significant pressure was applied to restrict his breathing.
The medical examiner is currently awaiting toxicology report results but suggests that the manner of death will be officially categorized as homicide. This information was reported by The Washington Post, which reviewed a recording of the phone call.
In a statement, Tricia McLaughlin, a spokeswoman for the Department of Homeland Security, said that Campos was attempting to take his own life and resisted staff violently. “During the ensuing struggle, Campos stopped breathing and lost consciousness. Medical staff was immediately called and responded. After repeated attempts to resuscitate him, EMTs declared him deceased on the scene,” McLaughlin stated, highlighting that the case remains under active investigation.
Background on Lunas Campos
Court documents reveal that Lunas Campos had a criminal history, including convictions for aggravated assault with a weapon and first-degree sexual abuse involving a child under 11 years old. ICE reportedly detained him in July 2025, marking a significant point in his legal troubles.
Witness accounts from fellow detainees add further context to the circumstances surrounding Campos’ death. Santos Jesus Flores, who claimed to be in the same unit as Campos, reported witnessing the struggle between Campos and the guards, who he said were denying him access to his medication. Flores recounted hearing Campos cry out, “No puedo respirar,” which translates to “I can’t breathe.” He added, “He said, ‘I cannot breathe, I cannot breathe.’ After that, we don’t hear his voice anymore and that’s it.”
This incident marks the second death reported at Camp Montana East, which has faced scrutiny for its treatment of detainees, and it is the fourth death of an ICE detainee so far in 2026. The escalating number of fatalities raises concerns about the conditions within ICE facilities and the treatment of individuals in custody.
Ongoing Investigations and Reactions
The case has prompted calls for heightened scrutiny of ICE practices. Advocates for immigration reform have expressed alarm over the recurring incidents of death and alleged mistreatment within the agency’s facilities. Critics argue that such events underline a pressing need for reform in how detainees are treated during their confinement.
The ongoing investigation will likely draw attention to the broader implications of detention practices, especially concerning individuals with medical needs. As federal authorities continue to assess the situation, the pressure will mount for ICE to implement measures that ensure the safety and well-being of all detainees.
The death of Lunas Campos is a tragic reminder of the potential consequences of the current immigration enforcement policies in place. As the investigation unfolds, many await answers regarding the systemic issues that may have contributed to this incident.
