GEORGIA — The Consulate General of Mexico in Atlanta is investigating the death of a Mexican national who died while in the custody of U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement, according to a news release from the consulate.
Officials said the consulate was notified of the death on Jan. 14. The individual, whose identity has not yet been released, was being held at the Robert A. Deyton Detention Facility in Lovejoy, located in Clayton County.
“In coordination with the competent U.S. authorities, the Consulate General has requested that the circumstances of the incident be clarified and is collaborating in the necessary procedures to ensure that the investigation is conducted promptly and transparently,” the consulate said in its statement.
The consulate said it has been in contact with the U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement field office in Atlanta as efforts continue to determine what led to the detainee’s death. Officials also said they are working to have the individual’s remains returned to Mexico in accordance with the wishes of his family.
“The Government of Mexico expresses its deepest condolences to the family of the Mexican national and reiterates its commitment to providing consular assistance and protection to our community,” the consulate said.
No additional details about the circumstances surrounding the death have been released.
