Afghan Wartime Ally Dies in ICE Custody, Sparking Investigation

Mohammad Nazeer Paktyawal, a 41-year-old Afghan man who served alongside U.S. Special Forces for over a decade, died on Saturday, March 14, 2026, less than 24 hours after being taken into custody by Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) in the Dallas area. His death has prompted calls for an urgent investigation from advocacy groups and raised concerns about conditions within ICE detention facilities.

Who Was Mohammad Nazeer Paktyawal?

Paktyawal arrived in the United States in August 2021 as part of the evacuation effort following the Taliban takeover of Afghanistan. He had worked with the 3rd Battalion, 3rd Special Forces Group (Airborne) in Paktika province, a particularly dangerous region of the country [1]. He was married with six children, ranging in age from 18 months to 15 years, and one child is a U.S. Citizen. He was the primary provider for his family, working at the Golden Star Halal Market, Afghan Bakery & Cafe in the Dallas area [1].

Paktyawal had a pending asylum case and was authorized to work in the U.S. He had completed his USCIS asylum interview and possessed a Social Security number [1]. Advocates emphasize that he and his family entered the U.S. Legally and were fully cooperating with the immigration process.

Timeline of Events

On March 13, 2026, at approximately 7:00 AM, Paktyawal was detained by multiple ICE agents in unmarked vehicles while preparing to take his children to school [1]. Later that day, he contacted his family from ICE custody, reporting that he was not feeling well [1]. He was admitted to Parkland Hospital in Dallas around 11:45 PM on March 13 [2]. He died on Saturday, March 14, after receiving CPR and other resuscitative efforts [3].

Cause of Death and Investigation

As of March 16, 2026, the cause of Paktyawal’s death remains unknown [1]. An initial report from the Dallas County Medical Examiner has not yet determined the cause or manner of death [3]. ICE has stated that Paktyawal complained of shortness of breath and chest pains during his medical intake and was transported to the hospital [3]. The Department of Homeland Security (DHS) stated his humanitarian parole expired in August 2025 [3]. Authorities have opened an investigation into the circumstances surrounding his death.

Rising Concerns Over ICE Detainee Deaths

Paktyawal’s death is the 12th of a detainee in ICE custody this fiscal year, which began in October [2] and the 13th according to other reports [4]. The current rate suggests ICE is on track for its deadliest year in detention in more than two decades [2]. Last year, 30 people died in ICE custody, the highest number in 20 years.

Advocacy Group Response

Shawn VanDiver, president of #AfghanEvac, called Paktyawal’s death “unacceptable,” stating, “This man fought our war for 10 years… He was brought here by the United States of America. He’s been working hard in Texas, paying taxes… He was doing everything right.” [2] #AfghanEvac is requesting an “urgent” investigation into the circumstances of his death [1].