ICE detainee passes away at Lock Haven Hospital

MCELHATTAN, Pa. - A Chinese national in the custody of U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) since Feb. 14 passed away on Feb. 23 at the Lock Haven Hospital in Lock Haven, Pa., of an apparent suicide.

On Feb. 11, Qi Gen Guo, was encountered by ICE after his arrest by Pennsylvania State Police (PSP). On Feb. 14, Guo, who was subject to a final order of removal, was released to ICE custody and was detained at the Clinton County Correctional Facility to effectuate his removal from the United States to the People's Republic of China.

On Feb. 23, the 47-year-old was transferred to the Lock Haven Hospital emergency room where he died. An autopsy has been scheduled to determine the official cause of death.

Consistent with ICE protocol, the appropriate state health and local law enforcement agencies have been informed. ICE has also notified the Chinese consulate and Guo's next of kin.

Qi Gen Guo is the sixth detainee to pass away in ICE custody in fiscal year 2011.