Honduran teen dies in US custody; probe ongoing.

Tragic Loss: 17-Year-Old Honduran Boy Dies in US Immigration Custody

A heartbreaking incident occurred on May 10, when a 17-year-old Honduran boy, Ángel Eduardo Maradiaga Espinoza, passed away while in the custody of US immigration officials at a facility in Safety Harbor, Florida.

American and Honduran officials confirmed the death on May 12, one day after Title 42 asylum restrictions ended. The cause of death and the circumstances of any sickness or medical treatment were not immediately available.

Department of Health and Human Services Expresses Condolences

The US Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) expressed its condolences in a statement to reporters, saying, “HHS is deeply saddened by this tragic loss and our heart goes out to the family, with whom we are in touch.”

The HHS, which was responsible for the facility where Maradiaga was detained, stated that a review of his medical records and a medical examiner’s investigation were ongoing.

ORR Division of Health for Unaccompanied Children Conducts Review

The Office of Refugee Resettlement (ORR) Division of Health for Unaccompanied Children (DHUC) is reviewing all clinical details of this case, including all inpatient health care records, as is standard practice for any situation involving the death of an unaccompanied child or a serious health outcome.

While in ORR care, children have access to health care, legal services, and trauma-informed care, but due to privacy and safety reasons, ORR cannot share further information on individual cases of children who have been in their care.

Conclusion

This tragic loss highlights the need for better care and protection for unaccompanied minors in US immigration custody. Our thoughts are with the family of Ángel Eduardo Maradiaga Espinoza during this difficult time.

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