Edwin Lopez-Cornejo Dies in ICE Custody at Newark Detention Facility
The administration announced that Edwin Lopez-Cornejo, a 41-year-old Salvadoran man, died on Saturday after experiencing a medical emergency while being held at the Delaney Hall detention center in Newark, New Jersey. Lopez-Cornejo was an illegal immigrant who had been detained since June 18, pending removal from the United States. While ICE officials stated that he received proper medical care and was seen by medical professionals, his mother, Maria Cornejo, alleged he was not receiving his prescribed medications for diabetes, high blood pressure, and seizures. This death marks the second known death at Delaney Hall since it reopened in May 2025. The facility has faced significant scrutiny and protests from rioters over allegations of inhumane conditions, including physical abuse and spoiled food. Newark Mayor Ras Baraka and New Jersey Governor Mikie Sherrill have called for the facility's closure, citing a lack of oversight and transparency. The administration defended the facility's operations, stating that Delaney Hall complies with all required state and local laws.
Sources
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Delaney Hall: Immigrant held at New Jersey ICE facility dies, officials say
CNN
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Man from El Salvador dies in immigration jail in New Jersey, ICE says
NBC News
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Second detainee dies after being held at Delaney Hall ICE detention center
Gothamist
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Immigrant being held at Delaney Hall dies, marking 22nd death in ICE custody
The Guardian