ICE detainee dies after heart complications in Montgomery County

A Honduran national in the custody of U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement passed away this month at a Conroe hospital due to complications arising from chronic heart disease, according to federal officials.

Luis Gustavo Nunez Caceres, 42, passed away on January 5 at HCA Houston Healthcare in Conroe. He had been hospitalized since December 23, 2025, due to worsening congestive heart failure related to a congenital condition, according to ICE.

Nunez unlawfully entered the United States at an undisclosed location and date, lacking inspection, admission, or parole by an immigration officer, as reported by the agency. On November 17, 2025, ICE officers apprehended him during an operation in Houston. Initially, he was booked into the Montgomery Processing Center in Conroe, and on November 25, he was transferred to the Joe Corley Processing Center in Conroe.

On December 23, Nunez was moved from detention to the hospital due to a worsening heart condition, according to ICE. On December 31, he experienced several critical medical emergencies and was subsequently transferred to the intensive care unit, where he stayed until his passing.

In a recent statement, ICE confirmed that it is mandated to inform Congress, relevant nongovernmental organizations, and the media whenever a death occurs in custody, as well as to publish the details on its official public website. The reports are mandated to be released within 90 days, as stipulated by the DHS Appropriations Act of 2018.

ICE has reiterated its dedication to ensuring “safe, secure, and humane” conditions for individuals in its custody, as well as its commitment to providing comprehensive medical care from intake through release or removal. The agency reports that detainees undergo medical, dental, and mental health screenings within 12 hours of arrival, receive a comprehensive health assessment within 14 days, and have access to medical appointments and 24-hour emergency care.

The passing occurs against the backdrop of heightened examination of healthcare protocols within federal immigration detention centers across the country. Officials from ICE highlighted that Nunez was provided with hospital-based treatment as his condition deteriorated and that medical professionals oversaw his care during his time in the hospital.

The agency stated that further information regarding Nunez’s medical history, the timing of his detention, and the circumstances of his death will be provided in ICE’s official report on in-custody deaths, in accordance with federal reporting requirements.