MURDER INVESTIGATION:  Eight suspects in Fire that hurt and killed 66 Detainees

By Dana Malcolm  

Staff Writer 

March 31, 2023 – The tragic fire that took 39 migrant lives and injured 27 in a detention center on the US-Mexico border, has turned into a mass homicide investigation.  

Video seemingly of the incident, now widely shared, shows two different guards walking by a prisoner who is kicking frantically at the bars of the detention center as fire rages around the corner.  Within minutes, it is too smoky to see the guard or the man anymore from the vantage point of the camera. 

The news of possible arrests came in a press conference live-streamed Wednesday night by Public Safety Secretary, Rosa Icela Rodríguez alongside Special Prosecutor for Human Rights, Irene Herrerías. 

Expressing indignation at the events of the fire, Rodriguez said the National Attorney General and Attorney General of the State of Chihuahua are now investigating at least eight people who could be responsible for the incident.

Two federal agents, a state immigration agent, and five members of a private security company, who are all currently providing statements regarding the incident, have been fingered. 

“We condemn the poor performance of public servants who did not adhere to the security protocols, protection of life, and civil protection protocols,” she said. 

The Public Safety Secretary revealed that Mexico is now working with Colombia, Ecuador, Honduras, El Salvador, Venezuela, and Guatemala to identify and get the bodies of the dead back home.  

“I want to be very emphatic in pointing out that in no way will the fax be hidden, or anyone protected. In this government, abuses and violations of human rights are punished,” she told those gathered and watching the livestream. 

Herrerías said homicide charges could be laid as the men made no effort to save those trapped behind the bars, despite being well aware of the blaze. 

Mexico is a hotspot for South American migrants trying to claim asylum in the United States.  Many travel hundreds of miles and must wait to hear whether they will be admitted, or face being turned away, often in border towns.  

Sixteen of the hospitalized migrants are in serious condition and the Minister revealed sadly, that the death toll could rise as bodies are identified.