In brief
Ismael Ayala-Uribe, 39, died in a Southern California hospital shortly after being transferred from the Adelanto ICE Processing Center for treatment of an abscess. The investigation into the cause of death comes as concerns grow over the well-being of individuals in immigration detention facilities. Mexico’s officials have reached out to the family and are demanding a thorough investigation.
ADELANTO, Calif. – An investigation has been initiated into the death of 39-year-old Ismael Ayala-Uribe, who passed away while in the custody of the U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) agency. Ayala-Uribe was transferred from the Adelanto ICE Processing Center to a local hospital on Sunday for surgery concerning an abscess on his buttock. Despite the efforts of hospital staff who activated lifesaving measures, he was pronounced dead early Monday morning.
According to ICE, Ayala-Uribe also had a documented history of hypertension and tachycardia. His family stated he was generally healthy aside from being diagnosed with high blood pressure. His brother revealed that Ayala-Uribe had begun exhibiting symptoms such as a cough and fever shortly after his arrival at the Adelanto facility on August 22.
This tragic event is part of a troubling trend, as federal records indicate that over a dozen individuals have died in immigration detention since the beginning of the year, raising concerns about the treatment and health conditions of detainees amidst heightened enforcement policies.
In response to the incident, the Mexican Foreign Relations Department extended its condolences and indicated that the Mexican Consulate in San Bernardino would pursue a thorough investigation to clarify the circumstances surrounding the death. Officials are currently communicating with Ayala-Uribe's family to provide legal support and assistance.
Ayala-Uribe entered the U.S. at an unspecified time and initially received Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals (DACA) protection in 2012. His application for renewal in 2016 was denied, and he had past convictions for driving under the influence.
