A recent autopsy report released by the county medical examiner’s office has determined that the death of Geraldo Lunas Campos, a 55-year-old Cuban immigrant, was ruled a homicide. This tragic incident occurred at the Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) facility known as Camp East Montana in El Paso, Texas, on January 3. According to the report, Mr. Lunas Campos became unresponsive while being physically restrained by law enforcement.
The autopsy classified the cause of death as “asphyxia due to neck and torso compression.” In addition to this, the report detailed significant injuries sustained by Mr. Lunas Campos, including burst blood vessels in both the front and side of his neck, as well as injuries to his eyelids. It is essential to note that while the medical examiner’s determination is a classification of how Mr. Lunas Campos died, it does not imply any criminal liability on the part of the detainees or facility staff.
The death of Mr. Lunas Campos has sparked renewed scrutiny of the detention center following a report by The Washington Post that highlighted the circumstances surrounding his death. Family members have alleged that he was killed by guards at the facility. They cite a witness who claims to have observed guards choking Mr. Lunas Campos. In light of these allegations, the family is reportedly preparing a wrongful-death lawsuit, as stated by their attorney, Will Horowitz.
Jeanette Pagan Lopez, the mother of two of Mr. Lunas Campos’s children, expressed her anguish over the situation, stating, “He was being abused and beaten and choked to death.” She spoke to The New York Times last week, emphasizing the emotional toll this incident has taken on their family. As of Wednesday, Ms. Pagan Lopez mentioned that she had not yet seen the autopsy report, indicating the family’s ongoing search for answers and justice.
The tragic death of Geraldo Lunas Campos has raised serious questions regarding the treatment of detainees within the ICE detention centers. As investigations continue and the family prepares to take legal action, it is crucial to bring attention to the ongoing issues of accountability and humane treatment in immigration detention facilities across the United States.