EL PASO, Texas (AP) — A Nicaraguan immigrant, Victor Manuel Diaz, was found dead in an immigration detention facility located at Fort Bliss, Texas, last week. According to officials from U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE), Diaz appears to have taken his own life on Wednesday at the tent complex within the facility. An ongoing federal investigation is looking into the circumstances surrounding his death.

This detention facility has been the site of significant incidents recently, including the death of another detainee, Geraldo Lunas Campos, earlier in the month. Staff members were reportedly attempting to prevent Lunas Campos from harming himself when the situation escalated into a physical confrontation. A fellow detainee claimed that at least five officers restrained Lunas Campos, with at least one officer allegedly putting an arm around his neck during the struggle.

It is important to note that discussions of suicide are sensitive and can affect many individuals. The U.S. has resources available for those in crisis, with the national suicide and crisis lifeline reachable by calling or texting 988.

Victor Manuel Diaz, aged 36, was apprehended on January 6 during a federal crackdown on immigration in Minnesota. Following his detention, he was transferred to Texas. ICE reported that Diaz entered the United States in March 2024, after which he was initially taken into custody by Border Patrol officers. Although he was released on parole while awaiting court proceedings, a judge ordered his removal from the U.S. in a hearing held in August, which Diaz did not attend. Subsequently, he received a final order for removal on January 12, only two days prior to being found unresponsive in his detention room.

While ICE has not publicly shared additional details regarding Diaz's death, the agency is required to inform Congress and release statements regarding all deaths that occur while individuals are in their custody. His death raises concerns, especially in light of the recent tragic events involving Lunas Campos. Reports indicate that Lunas Campos, 55, died from asphyxia due to chest and neck compression, with preliminary findings suggesting that his death may be classified as a homicide. A fellow detainee's account adds to the concern, indicating that excessive force was used during his restraint by the guards.

Both incidents—Diaz's suicide and Lunas Campos's death—underscore the urgent need for reform within the immigration detention system. Advocates have long pointed to the mental health challenges and inadequate conditions faced by detainees, advocating for stronger oversight and more humane treatment. The investigations into these deaths are ongoing, and it remains to be seen what measures will be taken in response to such tragedies.