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The family of a Costa Rican man who died months after being deported from the United States in a vegetative state is demanding answers and accountability from U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE). Randall Alberto Gamboa Esquivel, 41, was arrested by ICE agents in Sanford, Florida, in January 2025 for overstaying his visa and a prior non-violent charge. He died in a hospital in Costa Rica in late October.
According to his family and their attorney, Gamboa Esquivel was in good health when he was taken into custody. While detained at the Baker County Detention Center in Florida, his condition deteriorated significantly. The family alleges they were not properly notified of his worsening health until months later when they learned he had fallen into a persistent vegetative state following a fall at the facility. His case has drawn sharp criticism from immigrant advocates regarding the care provided to detainees.
In June 2025, ICE deported Gamboa Esquivel to Costa Rica. He was transported on a commercial flight, accompanied by two paramedics. His family, who were waiting for him at the airport, described their shock at seeing him arrive on a stretcher, unresponsive. He remained in that condition until his death.
In a statement, ICE maintained that Gamboa Esquivel received "extensive medical care" while in custody and that his removal was conducted in a safe and humane manner. However, the family's account details a different story, claiming medical negligence and a lack of transparency from the agency. They have initiated legal action to seek clarity on the circumstances that led to his condition.
The incident adds to the scrutiny over medical conditions within U.S. immigration detention. Human rights organizations and immigrant advocates have frequently criticized the standard of care in ICE facilities, citing numerous cases of alleged neglect and inadequate medical treatment. The family's lawyer stated they are determined to find out what happened to Gamboa Esquivel during his time in U.S. custody.
