Vigil in Jacksonville Highlights the Urgency of Ending ICE Custody Deaths
Jacksonville, Fla. — On Saturday evening, a solemn vigil illuminated by candlelight brought members of the Jacksonville Immigrant Rights Alliance (JIRA) together to honor individuals who have lost their lives in U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) custody. The gathering served as a poignant reminder of what advocates refer to as a growing humanitarian crisis that demands immediate attention.
This rally was spurred by concerning statistics. JIRA reports that 14 individuals have already died in ICE custody this year. If this trend continues, 2026 could mark the deadliest year for immigrant detainees since 2004, igniting further alarm among advocates.
Nina Vallecillo, president of JIRA, emphasized the tragic reality: the loss of lives merely due to interactions with ICE casts a shadow over the agency’s role. The organization also highlighted 33 additional deaths that occurred in 2025, a number that continues to rise as new cases surface. The focus of the vigil was on two particularly tragic cases in Florida, including that of 18-year-old Royer Perez Jimenez.
Jimenez’s journey began with his arrest and subsequent detention at Volusia County Jail, before being transferred to an ICE facility. Advocates contend that negligence during his custody played a significant role in his untimely death, marking him as the youngest victim in the state’s immigration enforcement system.
Community organizer Vanessa Alvarez remarked on the intrinsic value of every human life, regardless of their background, stating that everyone deserves dignity and protection. Alongside Alvarez, fellow activists pointed to 287(g) agreements, which empower local law enforcement to operate in concert with ICE, as a critical factor contributing to these tragic outcomes. They are urging residents of Jacksonville to advocate for an end to such partnerships by contacting their local representatives.
Alvarez emphasized the importance of community awareness, saying that personal conversations can create greater understanding around how these agreements lead to fatalities. She called on residents to engage with their neighbors and educate them on the implications of these partnerships.
In response to the rising fatalities, ICE has asserted that it prioritizes the health and safety of individuals in its custody. The agency described the deaths as matters of “grave concern” and affirmed its commitment to maintaining strict protocols whenever a fatality occurs.
However, supporters who gathered at the vigil voiced their concerns that existing protocols are insufficient. The gathering concluded with a renewed call to action, urging attendees to communicate with local leaders about the need for improved conditions and transparency regarding detainee welfare.
As the names of the deceased were solemnly read aloud, the collective message from the Jacksonville Immigrant Rights Alliance was unmistakable: they will persist in their fight until the number of deaths in custody reaches zero.
