Westlake Man Dies in ICE Custody, Sparking Outrage and Calls for Investigation

Los Angeles, CA – Alberto Gutierrez Reyes, a 48-year-old resident of Westlake, died on February 27, 2026, while in the custody of U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE). His death has ignited criticism of ICE’s detention conditions and prompted demands for a thorough investigation into the circumstances surrounding his passing.

Background

Gutierrez Reyes, a Mexican national originally from Veracruz, had lived in the Westlake neighborhood of Los Angeles for over two decades, arriving in the United States in 2001. He worked in construction to support his wife, Patricia Martinez, and their 19-year-old son, Erick Gutierrez. He was arrested by ICE agents on January 9, 2026, while going out to breakfast in Echo Park, Los Angeles [1].

Health Concerns and Alleged Medical Neglect

According to his wife, Patricia Martinez, Gutierrez Reyes had pre-existing health conditions, including diabetes and high cholesterol [1]. Martinez alleges that her husband repeatedly requested medical attention while detained at the Adelanto Detention Center, but his pleas were ignored. She described how his skin and eyes began to yellow in the weeks leading up to his death [1].

Gutierrez Reyes lost consciousness around midnight on February 26, 2026, and was transferred to Victor Valley Global Medical Center in Victorville, where he died hours later [1].

Official Response and Investigation

ICE confirmed that Gutierrez Reyes died at Victor Valley Global Medical Center on February 27, 2026 [4]. The Mexican Ministry of Foreign Affairs (SRE) has activated consular protocols and demanded a full investigation into the conditions that led to Gutierrez Reyes’ death, offering support to the family for repatriation of the remains [1].

Los Angeles Councilmember Eunisses Hernandez condemned Gutierrez Reyes’ death, stating he “died in ICE custody after being denied medical care” [2]. Hernandez noted that this was the ninth known death in ICE custody in 2026 [2] and [1].

Family’s Plea for Justice

Gutierrez Reyes’ wife, Patricia Martinez, expressed her devastation and frustration, stating she was only informed of her husband’s death by the San Bernardino consulate on Friday morning [3]. The family has launched a GoFundMe campaign to cover funeral and legal expenses [2].

This is a developing story and will be updated as more information becomes available.