Mexico Sues U.S. Over Deaths at Hands of ICE

The Mexican government initiated a formal legal strategy against U.S. immigration authorities. This measure responds to the tragic deaths of various Mexican citizens. The tragedies occurred in custody and during different operations of the Immigration and Customs Enforcement Service (ICE). The Mexican government considers this troubling escalation of institutional violence unacceptable.

The main trigger for this profound bilateral crisis was the murder of Lorenzo Salgado. He was a 51-year-old Mexican migrant resident of Houston, Texas. ICE agents took his life on July 7, 2026 through multiple gunshots. His family demands immediate justice following this painful and unfortunate incident.

Roberto Velasco, Secretary of Foreign Affairs (SRE), publicly confirmed these new legal actions. The official stressed that this severe incident must be investigated with absolute seriousness and rigor. Therefore, the case will transcend simple routine diplomatic notes between both nations. The current priority is to ensure transparent and fair processes for all.

Why Is Mexico Suing ICE?

The situation of migrants in detention centers is extremely alarming. Publicly, 58 deaths of different nationalities were reported during 2025 and 2026. Of this large documented number, 14 fatal victims held Mexican nationality. The causes of these deaths vary from alleged medical negligence to suicides.

Additionally, 3 other Mexican citizens lost their lives recently during agency operations. This adds up to a total of 17 questioned deaths by multiple civil organizations. According to Department of Homeland Security data, detention policies face constant scrutiny. Protocols for the use of lethal force also generate significant international public concern.

The Mexican federal government seeks to stop these repetitive human rights violations. To achieve this, it provides economic, legal, and humanitarian support to directly affected family members. It also facilitates the rapid repatriation of remains to their communities of origin in Mexico. The goal is to ensure that no family faces this painful process alone.

What Are the Legal Actions?

The first major measure directly involves the General Prosecutor’s Office (FGR). Formal criminal complaints will be filed before the corresponding U.S. state prosecutors. The office will also approach the U.S. Department of Justice directly to seek those responsible. The objective is for the implicated agents to face real criminal consequences.