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Óscar Rascón Duarte dies in ICE custody with advanced Alzheimer's and cancer

Sep 8, 2025 · Arizona, Mexico

Óscar Rascón Duarte dies in ICE custody with advanced Alzheimer's and cancer

Óscar Rascón Duarte, 58, a Mexican national, died on September 8, 2025, at Banner Desert Medical Center in Arizona while in ICE custody. He suffered from advanced-stage Alzheimer's disease, right kidney cancer, and hepatitis C. Rascón Duarte entered the United States in September 1976 as an undocumented immigrant near Douglas, Arizona. In 2004, while in Arizona Department of Corrections custody, ICE initiated deportation proceedings against him and transferred him to Eloy Detention Center. On January 15, 2025, ICE arranged long-term care for him at a medical facility due to his advanced medical conditions. He remained hospitalized in long-term medical care until his death. ICE stated that the cause of death is under investigation and that the Mexican Embassy was notified of his death. His death was one of 17 Mexican immigrant deaths in ICE custody or during immigration enforcement operations during the Trump administration's mass immigration crackdown, prompting Mexico's government to file complaints and demand investigations.

Timeline

Sep 8, 2025Óscar Rascón Duarte died at Banner Desert Medical Center in Arizona while in ICE custody; ICE notified the Mexican Embassy and stated the cause of death is under investigation
Jan 15, 2025ICE arranged long-term medical care for Rascón Duarte at a medical facility due to his advanced Alzheimer's, kidney cancer, and hepatitis C
2004While in Arizona Department of Corrections custody, ICE initiated deportation proceedings against Rascón Duarte and transferred him to Eloy Detention Center
Sep 10, 1976Óscar Rascón Duarte entered the United States without authorization near Douglas, Arizona

Sources

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