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Son Dies After Mother's ICE Arrest
7 Feb
Summary
- A teen's battle with cancer worsened after his mother's ICE detention.
- The family plans to return to Mexico with their son's remains.
- The mother was released on bail after three prior deportations.
A father is preparing to return to Mexico with his three children and the remains of his 15-year-old son, Kevin, following a series of devastating events. Kevin had been diagnosed with cancer in November and passed away on January 5, 2026. His condition reportedly worsened after his mother, Arlith Martínez, was detained by ICE on January 3, 2026.
Martínez, an undocumented immigrant from Mexico who had been previously deported three times, was released on January 29, 2026, after posting a $12,000 bail. She was later able to attend a private funeral for Kevin. The family had planned to fight for her release to attend the funeral, but an offer of a two-hour release was deemed insufficient.
Following these events, the parents, who have lived in the U.S. for over 20 years and have four American-citizen children, decided to repatriate to Mexico. The Mexican Embassy is providing support for their voluntary return and the transfer of Kevin's remains. This difficult decision comes amidst ongoing immigration enforcement actions.
