Family Sues U.S. Over Death of 8-Year-Old Honduran Girl in CBP Custody

The family of a Honduran girl with a heart condition who died in U.S. custody after crossing the border in 2023 has filed a lawsuit.

Apr. 10, 2026 at 9:48pm

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An extreme close-up of a medical device, such as an oxygen mask or heart monitor, lit by a harsh, direct flash against a black background, conveying the stark, gritty reality of this tragic case.A harsh, unforgiving close-up of a medical device highlights the lack of proper care given to a vulnerable migrant child who died in U.S. custody.New Haven Today

The family of an 8-year-old Honduran girl with a heart condition who died while in U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) custody after crossing the border in 2023 has filed a lawsuit against the United States government. The lawsuit alleges that the girl did not receive proper medical care and that her death could have been prevented.

Why it matters

This case highlights ongoing concerns about the treatment of migrant children in U.S. immigration detention facilities and the lack of adequate medical care provided to vulnerable populations. It also raises questions about the government's responsibility for the wellbeing of those in its custody.

The details

According to the lawsuit, the girl, whose name has not been publicly released, crossed the U.S.-Mexico border with her mother in 2023. While in CBP custody, her health deteriorated and she did not receive the necessary medical attention, leading to her death. The family is seeking damages and alleging that the government's negligence contributed to the girl's death.

  • The girl crossed the U.S.-Mexico border with her mother in 2023.
  • The girl died while in CBP custody later in 2023.

The players

Honduran Family

The family of the 8-year-old Honduran girl who died in U.S. custody after crossing the border.

U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP)

The U.S. government agency responsible for border security and immigration enforcement, which had custody of the girl at the time of her death.

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What’s next

The lawsuit is currently pending, and the family is seeking damages and alleging that the government's negligence contributed to the girl's death.

The takeaway

This tragic case underscores the need for greater accountability and improved medical care for migrants, especially vulnerable populations like children, in U.S. immigration detention facilities.