El Paso Medical Examiner: ICE Camp Death Ruled Homicide

The El Paso Medical Examiner’s office has ruled the death of a detainee at an immigration camp as homicide. The incident involved 55-year-old Geraldo Lunas Campos, who died on January 3 at Camp East Montana, located at Fort Bliss, an Army base in El Paso.

Details of the Incident

The autopsy stated that Lunas Campos died from asphyxia due to neck and torso compression. This indicates that he could not breathe properly because of pressure applied to his neck and chest. Initial statements from Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) described his death as a result of “medical distress.” However, subsequent reports suggested he may have attempted suicide, prompting confusion about the circumstances surrounding his death.

Background of the Detainee

Geraldo Lunas Campos had a history of bipolar disorder and anxiety, which was noted in his medical records. He was also a registered sex offender and had previous felony convictions. Arrested in July 2025 in Rochester, New York, he spent almost two decades living in the United States. He had been detained at Camp East Montana since September 6, 2025.

Recent Deaths at Camp East Montana

This is not an isolated case. Lunas Campos is the third detainee to die at Camp East Montana, which was constructed last summer. The camp has the capacity to hold up to 5,000 immigrants and is currently the largest immigration detention center in the country. Recent statistics indicate that four detainee deaths across Texas facilities were reported in the past two months, with three occurring at this camp.

• Francisco Gaspar-Andres: A 48-year-old Guatemalan who died on December 3, 2025, from liver and kidney failure.
• Victor Manuel Diaz: A 34-year-old Nicaraguan who died on January 14, 2026, found unconscious in his room; investigations into his death are ongoing.
• Luis Gustavo Núñez: A 42-year-old Honduran who passed away on January 5 near Houston due to chronic heart-related health issues.

Ongoing Investigations

The El Paso Medical Examiner is currently investigating the circumstances of Lunas Campos’ death, which raises significant concerns regarding the treatment of detainees in immigration facilities. The situation continues to evolve as more information becomes available, highlighting the urgent need for oversight in such establishments.