Afghan Man Who Worked with U.S. Forces Dies in ICE Custody

Family and advocates call for independent investigation into death of 41-year-old refugee after one day in detention

Mar. 17, 2026 at 5:05pm

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A 41-year-old Afghan refugee named Mohammad Nazeer Paktyawal, who previously worked alongside U.S. forces, died less than a day after being detained by U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) in North Texas. His family and community leaders are demanding an independent investigation into the circumstances surrounding his death.

Why it matters

Paktyawal's death in ICE custody has raised concerns about the agency's medical protocols and treatment of immigrants, especially those who previously assisted the U.S. government. His case highlights ongoing debates around immigration enforcement, refugee resettlement, and the healthcare provided to those in detention.

The details

Paktyawal, a father of six, was taken into custody by ICE on March 13 near his home in Richardson, Texas. According to family members, he was detained while preparing to take his children to school. ICE said Paktyawal complained of chest pain and shortness of breath at a processing area before being transported to a hospital, where he died the next morning despite emergency treatment. The cause of death remains under investigation.

  • Paktyawal was detained by ICE on March 13, 2026.
  • He died less than 24 hours later on March 14, 2026.

The players

Mohammad Nazeer Paktyawal

A 41-year-old Afghan refugee who previously worked alongside U.S. forces and died in ICE custody.

U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE)

The federal agency that detained Paktyawal and is responsible for his care and treatment while in custody.

AfghanEvac

An advocacy group that has said documents show Paktyawal assisted American troops in eastern Afghanistan near the Pakistan border.

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What they’re saying

“No one in ICE custody is denied access to proper medical care. It is a longstanding practice to provide comprehensive medical care from the moment an alien enters ICE custody. This includes medical, dental, and mental health services as available, and access to medical appointments and 24-hour emergency care. This is the best healthcare that [sic] many aliens have received in their entire lives.”

— Lauren Bis, DHS Deputy Assistant Secretary

What’s next

Paktyawal's family and advocates are calling for an independent investigation into the circumstances surrounding his death in ICE custody.

The takeaway

Paktyawal's death has raised serious concerns about ICE's treatment of immigrants, especially those who previously assisted the U.S. government. His case highlights the ongoing debates around immigration enforcement, refugee resettlement, and the quality of healthcare provided to those in detention.