Tien Xuan Phan, a 55-year-old Vietnamese national held by U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE), died at Methodist Hospital Northeast on July 19. The cause of death is under investigation.
Phan was detained at the Karnes County Immigration Processing Center in Karnes City before being taken to Otto Kaiser Memorial Hospital on July 18 due to seizures, vomiting, and unresponsiveness. He was later airlifted to Methodist Hospital Northeast for further evaluation.
ICE Enforcement and Removal Operations officers arrested Phan on June 2. An immigration judge had ordered his removal from the U.S. on April 2, 2012, but he did not leave as instructed.
Following ICE policy, notifications were made to the U.S. Department of Homeland Security, the Office of Inspector General, and the ICE Office of Professional Responsibility through the Integrity Coordination Center. The Vietnam Embassy was also informed about Phan's death.
ICE issues official notifications to Congress, nongovernmental organizations, and the media when a detained illegal alien dies. A news release with details is posted on the ICE public website within two business days according to agency policy. Reports regarding in-custody deaths are made public within 90 days as required by congressional requirements outlined in the DHS Appropriations Bill of 2018.
These reports can be accessed on the Detainee Death Reporting page.
ICE emphasizes its commitment to providing safe, secure, and humane environments for those in custody. Comprehensive medical care is offered from arrival throughout detention. Individuals receive medical, dental, and mental health screenings within 12 hours of arriving at each facility and a full health assessment within 14 days of entering ICE custody or arriving at a facility. Access to medical appointments and emergency care is available around-the-clock.
