Family seeks investigation after death of Salvadoran man in ICE custody at Delaney Hall
NEWARK, N.J. (WPVI) -- Family members and community advocates are calling for an independent investigation into the death of a Salvadoran man who died while in U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement custody at a Newark, New Jersey, detention center.
Edwin Lopez-Cornejo died Aug. 1 while being held at Delaney Hall, a privately operated immigration detention facility in Newark.
Federal authorities have said Lopez-Cornejo suffered a medical emergency, but the cause of death remains under investigation.
During a gathering Tuesday, Lopez-Cornejo's family and supporters demanded answers, arguing his death may have been preventable.
"I'm going to grow up without a father," Lopez-Cornejo's 12-year-old daughter said.
She later added, "We had so many plans, but I never did them because ... they're just heartless monsters. Shame on all of them."
Family members allege medical negligence related to Lopez-Cornejo's high blood pressure and diabetes. ICE has maintained that Lopez-Cornejo received proper medical care while in custody.
Delaney Hall has faced months of protests and scrutiny over the treatment of detainees. State leaders have continued to seek access to the facility and records related to its operation.
"This will not last forever, and we will hold this administration accountable," said Rep. Analilia Mejia, NJ-11.
According to ICE, Lopez-Cornejo entered the United States illegally in 2006 and was removed a few months later. The agency said he later re-entered the country on an unknown date and was detained June 18.
According to ABC News, Lopez-Cornejo is at least the 23rd detainee to die in ICE custody this year and the second at Delaney Hall.
Community members honored Lopez-Cornejo during a vigil outside the detention center Monday.
In a statement, Gov. Mikie Sherrill said, in part, "This tragedy is another painful reminder of why Delaney Hall should be closed."
Lopez-Cornejo's family is demanding that ICE and GEO Group, which operates the facility, release all medical records related to his detention and treatment.
Sherrill also said her administration would continue pursuing justice and transparency in the case.
