A troubling series of events has drawn renewed scrutiny to US Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) detention facilities. Between September 29 and October 11, 2025, three individuals died while in ICE custody, raising serious questions about medical care, oversight, and conditions in these facilities.
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The Tragic Series of Deaths in ICE Custody
1. Hasan Ali Mohammad Saleh
- Age: 67
- Nationality: Jordanian
- Date of Death: September 29, 2025
- Location: Larkin Community Hospital, Miami, Florida
Saleh, who had a long legal history in the US, was admitted to Larkin Community Hospital for treatment of a fever. Despite efforts by medical staff, he died from cardiac arrest. Saleh had been detained by ICE in September 2025 while awaiting removal proceedings.
2. Leo Cruz-Silva
- Age: 34
- Nationality: Mexican
- Date of Death: October 4, 2025
- Location: Ste. Genevieve County Jail, Missouri
Authorities report that Cruz-Silva died following a suspected suicide attempt. He had recently been arrested for public intoxication.
3. Huabing Zhi
- Age: 40
- Nationality: Chinese
- Date of Death: September 29, 2025
- Location: Imperial Regional Detention Facility, California
Zhi suffered a seizure while in custody. Despite immediate medical intervention, he was pronounced dead after being transported to a hospital.
Concerns Over ICE Detention Practices
These deaths have intensified criticism of ICE’s detention system, particularly regarding healthcare provision, overcrowding, and understaffing. Experts highlight that detainees with pre-existing medical conditions—like Saleh, who had high blood pressure, diabetes, and heart disease—are especially vulnerable.
Private contractors such as CoreCivic and GEO Group operate several facilities, where advocacy groups argue that oversight and care standards are insufficient. The Detention Watch Network has called for systemic reform, emphasizing that inadequate monitoring contributes to preventable deaths.
Public Reaction and Social Media Outcry
The news of these deaths has sparked widespread public outrage. Social media campaigns, including the hashtag #EndICEAbuse, have gained momentum as users demand accountability and immediate action to improve detention conditions.
Setareh Ghanehari, Advocacy Director at Detention Watch Network, stated:
“Trump’s brutal mass detention expansion is exacerbating inhumane conditions that have been well-documented for decades.”
Official Statements and Ongoing Investigations
ICE has stated its commitment to providing a safe, secure, and humane environment with comprehensive medical care. However, concerns persist over the adequacy of these measures.
The Department of Homeland Security Office of Inspector General (OIG) and ICE’s Office of Professional Responsibility are reviewing the circumstances of the deaths to determine if agency policies and standards were followed.
Conclusion: The Need for Reform
The deaths of Saleh, Cruz-Silva, and Zhi are a stark reminder of the dangers associated with overcrowded, understaffed detention centers and inadequate medical oversight. Advocacy groups, lawmakers, and the public continue to press for reforms to ensure the safety and well-being of all detainees in ICE custody.
This story is developing and may be updated as new information becomes available.
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