The key facts

  • Emiliano Andre-Covarrubias, 56, died at the Rio Grande Processing Center in Laredo, Texas; cause of death has not been officially established
  • Sheinbaum: a complaint will be filed in the US; the Foreign Ministry demands a 'swift, thorough and transparent' investigation
  • According to Mexican media, this is the 18th death of a Mexican national in ICE custody since January 20, 2025

Statement by the President of Mexico

Mexican President Claudia Sheinbaum said on Monday that the government will file a complaint with US authorities over the death of a Mexican citizen in immigration detention in Texas. 'We will also file a complaint in the United States, because there must be protection of human rights,' she said at her morning press conference. Sheinbaum also condemned racism against Mexican migrants and promised support for her compatriots in the US: 'The government of Mexico and its president will always be their allies.'

Circumstances of the Death

Emiliano Andre-Covarrubias, 56, died in the custody of US Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) at the Rio Grande Processing Center in Laredo, Texas. He reportedly suffered from heart disease, diabetes and high blood pressure; he was found unconscious in his cell and was later pronounced dead. For several months he had complained to his daughter about the lack of medical care at the facility. The cause of death has not been officially established.

Actions by Mexican Authorities

Mexico's Foreign Ministry demanded a swift, thorough and transparent investigation into the circumstances of the death and a determination of possible responsibility of the authorities. The Consulate General in Laredo activated its protection protocol, contacted the family and provided consular assistance. The complaint will be filed with the district attorney of Webb County, where Laredo is located, and Mexico's embassy will seek guarantees of consular access to immigration detention centers. Sheinbaum promised to strengthen consular work to protect the rights of detained Mexicans abroad.

Context

According to Mexican media, this is the 18th death of a Mexican citizen in ICE custody or during immigration operations since Donald Trump's return to office on January 20, 2025. The case heightens diplomatic tension over conditions for migrants in US detention centers; Mexican authorities are calling for transparency and accountability as the investigation proceeds.