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CBP Statement on Death in Custody: 32-year-old Salvadoran Man Passes Away in Lordsburg, N.M.

Release Date
Thu, 08/01/2019

According to initial reports, U.S. Border Patrol agents from El Paso Sector apprehended a 32-year-old Salvadoran man, traveling with his 8-year-old daughter, the night of July 31. The man and child were immediately transported to the El Paso Border Patrol Station where they were medically screened and cleared upon arrival. Early morning on August 1, they were transferred to the Lordsburg Border Patrol Station to expedite their processing. They were again medically screened and cleared upon arrival. Later that morning, the man collapsed outside the shower area and CPR was initiated while an ambulance was called. EMS personnel assumed care and transported the man via ambulance to be airlifted for additional care. Sadly, despite efforts to save his life, air transport personnel pronounced the man deceased. An adult female, a neighbor of the family with whom the child is familiar, was present in the processing center and has been with the daughter since. Agents also assisted the daughter in contacting her family, including her mother who resides in the United States.

CBP is committed to the health, safety and humane treatment of those in our custody. Consistent with CBP policy, CBP’s Office of Professional Responsibility has initiated a review. The Department of Homeland Security Inspector General, the El Salvador government and members of Congress have been notified, consistent with CBP’s Interim Procedures on Notification of a Death in Custody.

Statement Attributable to Acting Commissioner Mark Morgan:

“A 32-year-old Salvadoran man collapsed at the Lordsburg, New Mexico, Border Patrol Station and later passed away after emergency medical personnel attempted to save his life. On behalf of the men and women of CBP, we extend our deepest condolences. This tragedy marks the second time in less than a month that a person has died following their perilous migration from their home in Central America, through Mexico and across our Southwest border.”

Last Modified: Feb 03, 2021