The Secretariat of Foreign Affairs (SRE) has requested that U.S. authorities conduct a prompt, exhaustive, and transparent investigation to clarify the circumstances surrounding the death of a Mexican national at the Rio Grande processing center in Laredo, Texas, and to determine, where applicable, who should be held responsible.
The SRE reported that it was notified of the case by the local office of U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE), through the Consulate General of Mexico in Laredo.
In a statement, the SRE affirmed that upon learning of the incident, the consular mission activated the appropriate protection protocol, established contact with the family, and has provided the necessary consular assistance.
This case brings the number of Mexican nationals who have died under such circumstances since January 20, 2025—when Donald Trump’s second administration began—to 18. This is a “situation that demands an effective response from U.S. authorities to guarantee the lives, physical integrity, and human rights of migrants.”
The Government of Mexico expressed its deep concern regarding the recurring deaths of Mexican nationals while in custody or in the context of immigration enforcement operations in the United States.
The SRE has initiated diplomatic and legal actions, including sending diplomatic notes to the State Department, filing complaints with the relevant authorities, and taking steps to help families secure legal representation. Furthermore, it has strengthened its consular protection efforts and is closely monitoring the detention conditions of Mexican nationals.
The Secretariat stated that it will continue to utilize all diplomatic and legal mechanisms at its disposal—including a formal complaint to be submitted to the Webb County District Attorney—to seek full clarification of this case. Furthermore, through the Embassy of Mexico in the United States, a request will be made to immigration authorities to ensure that Mexican consuls have access to immigration detention centers, so that they may fulfill their mandate of securing and demanding healthcare for Mexican nationals.
The Government of Mexico extends its deepest condolences to the family of the deceased Mexican national and reaffirms its commitment to the protection and defense of the rights of Mexican citizens abroad.
