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Statement on Death of Congolese National in Laredo

Release Date
Thu, 12/26/2019

"Early in the afternoon of December 24, 2019, a 41-year-old national from the Democratic Republic of the Congo and her family arrived in the United States, presenting themselves for admission into the U.S. at the Gateway to the Americas Bridge in Laredo, Texas. During initial processing, she was medically screened to include a review of paperwork she provided highlighting a previous medical condition, cleared by on-site contracted medical personnel, and transferred to the Lincoln Juarez Bridge for additional immigration processing and overnight holding. In the early morning of December 25, 2019, while awaiting final processing and release, the individual notified CBP officers that she was suffering from abdominal pain and had vomited. CBP contacted EMS immediately and the individual was transported to the Laredo Medical Center for a medical evaluation. The subject's health declined rapidly and she passed away at the hospital. Webb County Medical Examiner’s Office (WCMEO) has determined that the death is not suspicious, as the individual had a preexisting medical condition. CBP’s Office of Professional Responsibility was notified and is reviewing the incident."

 

Last Modified: May 31, 2023