ICE Frees Columbia Heights Fourth-Grader After Month-Long Detention

After a month of detention, fourth-grader Elizabeth Zuna Caisaguano and her mother, Rosa Elena Caisaguano Cajilema, have been released from the Dilley Immigration Processing Center in Texas. Their release followed significant advocacy from school officials and Minnesota Governor Tim Walz. Elizabeth’s father, Luis Zuna, expressed his immense relief upon their release, stating, “I felt very happy, very relieved.”

Timeline of Events

On a January morning, Elizabeth, 10, called her father to inform him that immigration agents were taking her from Highland Park Elementary School. Luis Zuna rushed to the school, where he and staff waited for hours, but Elizabeth never arrived. By afternoon, she and her mother had already been relocated to Texas.

After nearly a month in detention, both Elizabeth and Rosa became ill. School social worker Tracy Xiong witnessed the distress experienced by Zuna when he learned of their situation. “That image of Elizabeth’s father will stay with me forever,” she remarked. “I watched him sit in his car, bury his head in his hands, and cry uncontrollably.”

Concerns Raised by Officials

During a press conference at the Minnesota Capitol, Governor Walz and school officials urged for the immediate release of Elizabeth. They highlighted the urgency due to reported measles cases in the facility. Walz emphasized, “These children need to be accounted for today.”

• Elizabeth was released from detention on February 3, 2026.
• She and her mother are currently in a shelter.
• School officials have called for the release of other detained students, as six students from Columbia Heights Public Schools have been affected.

Legal Proceedings and Advocacy

A habeas corpus petition was filed in federal court, resulting in U.S. District Judge Fred Biery ordering that neither Elizabeth nor her mother could be deported while the case is ongoing. The Department of Homeland Security clarified that while there had been a final order for removal, Elizabeth’s well-being had been prioritized during the incident.

Support from the School Community

Carolina Gutierrez, principal of Highland Elementary, noted that Elizabeth is a dedicated student who dreams of becoming a doctor. She described Elizabeth as a “quiet but strong presence” who has been focused on learning English. Gutierrez also highlighted the emotional impact on Elizabeth’s classmates, particularly on the day she was taken.

Gutierrez emphasized the importance of humane conditions for Elizabeth and her mother, hoping for their swift return to school where Elizabeth can resume her friendships and academic pursuits.

Looking Ahead

Luis Zuna expressed his plans to surprise his wife and daughter with flowers upon their return to Minnesota. As Elizabeth and her mother await the next steps in their legal journey, the Columbia Heights community remains actively engaged in advocating for the well-being and rights of their students.

Advocacy continues, with officials focusing on accountable procedures for all children, ensuring their safety and well-being. There is a collective hope that Elizabeth can return to a familiar and nurturing environment soon, where she can continue her education free from distress.