Lawful Permanent Resident Dies in ICE Custody in Laredo

Emiliano Andrade-Covarrubias, a 56-year-old lawful permanent resident, died in U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement custody at the Rio Grande Processing Center in Laredo on October 17. ICE said he was found unresponsive in his bed and that the cause of death was unknown pending an autopsy. ICE said staff performed chest compressions and called emergency services after finding him. He was pronounced dead after rescue efforts, according to the agency’s account. The latest statement in the reports said an autopsy would determine the official cause; no final determination was reported. His daughter, Estefani Andrade, said her father had a heart condition, diabetes and high blood pressure, and that he had brought medication with him when he was detained. She alleged staff did not give him the medication and ignored his requests for help after he reported feeling ill, including difficulty breathing and tightness in his chest. She also said a 2021 hospitalization for COVID-19 had lasting effects on his health. ICE maintained that Andrade-Covarrubias received proper medical care and was seen by medical professionals. The accounts of his treatment in custody remain disputed, and...