Mexican National, Former DACA Recipient Dies in ICE Custody Following August Arrest
ADELANTO, Calif. – A Mexican national who was a former recipient of the Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals (DACA) program has died while in the custody of immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE). Jose Ramon ayala-Uribe, 31, died on October 26, 2023, after being detained during an immigration enforcement operation in August. His death is prompting renewed scrutiny of conditions within ICE detention facilities.
Ayala-Uribe was brought to the U.S. at the age of four and had lived in the Los Angeles area for decades, working at a car wash for over 15 years. His case highlights the impact of shifting immigration policies and the vulnerability of long-term U.S. residents facing deportation. The circumstances surrounding his death are under inquiry, but it comes amid reports of deteriorating conditions, lack of access to food, water, and medication at the Adelanto ICE Detention Center.
Federal agents detained Ayala-Uribe on August 17 during an immigration enforcement operation. He was transferred to the Adelanto facility. According to ICE, Ayala-Uribe was a DACA recipient in 2012, but his renewal submission was denied in 2016. He had two prior DUI convictions, the first in 2015 resulting in three years probation, and the second in 2019 leading to 120 days in jail and five years probation.
The death occurred as car wash locations in the Los angeles area have become a focus of increased immigration enforcement. The Clean Carwash Worker Center reports that at least 247 car wash workers were detained between June and September, with raids conducted at 81 businesses.
Following a recent visit to the Adelanto facility,Rep. Luz Rivas of California stated, “the conditions we saw inside the adelanto ICE Detention Center prove that Donald Trump’s policies are putting our most vulnerable in harm’s way.”
ayala-Uribe is remembered by family and friends as a beloved member of the community and a dedicated worker. His mother, speaking emotionally, described him as loved by his family, friends, and long-time car wash clients.
DACA, established during the Obama management, provides protection from deportation and work permits to undocumented immigrants brought to the U.S. as children. The program’s future has been subject to legal challenges and policy changes in recent years.
