Hickenlooper demands DHS meeting as ICE fails to respond in Eagle County 'death card' case

Colorado senator seeks transparency and accountability after federal immigration agents allegedly left intimidating symbols in abandoned vehicles.

Published on Feb. 21, 2026

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Colorado U.S. Sen. John Hickenlooper is demanding a meeting with Department of Homeland Security (DHS) officials after the agency failed to respond to requests for a briefing and independent investigation into so-called 'death cards' allegedly left by Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) agents in forcibly abandoned vehicles in Eagle County, Colorado in January. Hickenlooper and other lawmakers say the use of unmarked vehicles and intimidating symbols like the 'death card' undermine public trust and raise serious civil rights concerns.

Why it matters

This incident highlights ongoing tensions between federal immigration enforcement and local communities, as well as concerns about the tactics and accountability of agencies like ICE. The alleged use of intimidation tactics against immigrant communities raises questions about civil liberties and the appropriate role of federal law enforcement.

The details

According to reports, ICE agents detained up to 11 people in Eagle County on January 21st. After the detentions, 'death cards' - the ace of spades, which has been used by white supremacist groups - were allegedly left in the forcibly abandoned vehicles. Colorado lawmakers, including Hickenlooper, Bennet, and Neguse, have demanded a meeting and independent investigation, but ICE has failed to respond or provide information about the incident.

  • On January 21, 2026, ICE agents detained up to 11 people in Eagle County, Colorado.
  • On February 2, 2026, Colorado lawmakers sent a letter to DHS Secretary Kristi Noem requesting a briefing and independent investigation.
  • On February 18, 2026, ICE failed to respond to the lawmakers' request for information.

The players

John Hickenlooper

A U.S. Senator from Colorado who is demanding a meeting with DHS officials and an independent investigation into the alleged 'death card' incident.

Michael Bennet

A U.S. Senator from Colorado who joined Hickenlooper in requesting a meeting and investigation.

Joe Neguse

A U.S. Representative from Colorado whose district includes Eagle County, and who also signed the letter to DHS.

Kristi Noem

The current Secretary of the Department of Homeland Security.

Alex Sánchez

The president and CEO of Voces Unidas, an immigrant rights advocacy group in Colorado, who is calling for accountability and an independent investigation.

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What they’re saying

“ICE has failed to provide to us the information on the reports of their agents leaving 'death cards' in detainee's vehicles in Eagle County. When we requested a meeting this week, ICE kicked the can down the road. We need immediate transparency, not deflections. People are terrified and this administration remains unaccountable.”

— John Hickenlooper, U.S. Senator (Vail Daily)

“We asked Sen. Hickenlooper to hold ICE and DHS accountable, and we are glad he is doing so. If DHS and ICE have nothing to hide, they need to meet with Colorado's congressional delegation and allow for a full independent investigation. We deserve better from the Trump administration.”

— Alex Sánchez, President and CEO, Voces Unidas (Vail Daily)

What’s next

Hickenlooper has demanded an immediate meeting with DHS officials to address the lack of transparency and accountability around the alleged 'death card' incident in Eagle County. The lawmakers are seeking a full independent investigation into the matter.

The takeaway

This case highlights the ongoing tensions between federal immigration enforcement and local communities, as well as concerns about the tactics and accountability of agencies like ICE. The alleged use of intimidation tactics against immigrant communities raises serious civil rights issues that demand thorough investigation and reform.