Coroner’s Office Declares Homicide in Death of Haitian Immigrant Duffy Michel
The Allegheny County Coroner’s Office announced on Friday that Duffy Michel, a Haitian immigrant who died shortly after being released from ICE custody, was the victim of homicide. Michel, 31, of Charleroi, passed away from hypothermia on March 2 after reportedly spending over 24 hours at a bus stop under freezing temperatures, according to local investigations.
Details Surrounding Michel’s Final Hours
Michel had been serving a six-month sentence at the Washington County Correctional Facility for misdemeanor charges. Once her sentence was completed, she was turned over to ICE, which deemed her an “illegal alien.” She was released on the South Side of Pittsburgh on February 28, wearing an ankle monitor.
Homeland Security’s Response and ICE Denials
Lauren Biss, acting assistant secretary of the Department of Homeland Security (DHS), issued a statement on Sunday refuting any claims of wrongdoing by immigration officials. In her communication, she asserted that ICE had no involvement in Michel’s death, as it occurred three days following their encounter with her.
Recommendations from the Forensic Pathologist
The county’s statement regarding the case indicated that the forensic pathologist identified Michel as a vulnerable adult suffering from severe untreated mental health issues, as well as significant language barriers at the time of her release. The pathologist categorized her death as a homicide, which implies it was caused by another individual’s actions, without suggesting criminal guilt.
ICE’s Account of Events
Biss highlighted that Michel was released with all her personal belongings, including a charged cell phone, in central Pittsburgh, where public transportation was readily accessible. She claimed that ICE learned of the tampering of Michel’s ankle monitor on March 3 but was denied access to the scene by county officials. Biss also noted that ICE was informed of Michel’s death through media reports, rather than through local authorities.
Ongoing Investigations and Political Reactions
The U.S. Attorney’s Office, which handles federal crimes, declined to provide comments on the case. A spokesperson for the Allegheny County District Attorney’s Office stated they would refrain from commenting until more information is gathered. Chief Assistant District Attorney Rebecca Spangler emphasized the need for thorough investigation to determine the cause of death, addressing concerns over how the ruling of homicide was reached.
Calls for Accountability and Change
In response to the findings, Democratic officials voiced strong criticism regarding ICE’s treatment of Michel. Allegheny County Executive Sarah Innamorato described the agency’s actions as demonstrating a lack of compassion for individuals facing mental health challenges. Additionally, Rep. Summer Lee labeled Michel’s death as preventable, attributing it to a system that dehumanizes and neglects vulnerable individuals.
Following Michel’s death, attorney Joseph Murphy, who represents her family, indicated the possibility of a civil lawsuit in the near future, stressing the importance of accountability for ICE’s role in her release and subsequent demise.
