ICE detainee passes away at New Jersey hospital

NEWARK, N.J. — A 56-year-old Ecuadorian national in the custody of U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) passed away early Monday morning at the Trinitas Regional Medical Center in Elizabeth, N.J., due to an apparent heart attack.

On Sept. 6, Victor Antonio Ramirez-Reyes was arrested by ICE. He was detained at the Elizabeth Detention Center while awaiting removal from the country.

Early Monday morning, Ramirez-Reyes went into cardiac arrest at the Elizabeth Detention Center. Emergency medical services were contacted and Ramirez-Reyes was rushed to Trinitas Regional Medical Center, where he was pronounced dead.

An autopsy has been scheduled to determine the exact cause of death. Ramirez-Reyes was taking medication for high blood pressure.

Consistent with ICE protocol, the appropriate state health and local law enforcement agencies have been informed. ICE has also notified the Ecuadorian consulate and Ramirez-Reyes' next of kin through his attorney.

Ramirez-Reyes is the 10th detainee to pass away in ICE custody in fiscal year 2011.