Local Democratic lawmakers and civil rights advocates called for an independent investigation and the closure of Camp East Montana while the ACLU highlighted broader concerns over detainee treatment. Some community members expressed skepticism over ICE’s initial statements.

Deaths in ICE custody have increased as the US immigration enforcement system has expanded, with overcrowding and reliance on private contractors drawing scrutiny. Past facility inspections found poorly defined safety protocols and medical care shortcomings.

There is no confirmation or forensic evidence in the autopsy report supporting ICE’s initial claim of suicide. The medical examiner's findings were asphyxia due to compression, not self-harm, and made no mention of a suicide attempt.