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Family Faces Heartbreak and Hard Choices After Son's Death and ICE Detention

KVIA•Friday, February 6, 2026 at 5:55 PM•CNN Newsource

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AI Summary

Rigo Mendoza's family is grappling with immense grief following the death of his 15-year-old son, Kevin, who passed away from cancer shortly after his mother, Arlith Martínez, was detained by ICE. The family, undocumented immigrants from Mexico, has lived in the U.S. for over 20 years, raising four American-born children. Following Kevin's death, the family decided to return to Mexico instead of fighting for Martínez's release, as they seek to repatriate their son's remains. Martínez was released on January 29 after paying a $12,000 bond, but faces a deportation hearing soon. The Mexican consulate is providing legal and financial support for their voluntary return.

Key Details: • Kevin Mendoza died on January 5, shortly after his mother's ICE detention on January 3. • Arlith Martínez was released on January 29 after paying a $12,000 bond. • The family plans to postpone Kevin's funeral until late January. • The Mexican consulate is assisting with legal support for Martínez and financial aid for the family's return to Mexico.

deportation immigration ice cancer family

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ICENew JerseyMexicoBaltimoreRigo MendozaKevin MendozaArlith MartínezMexican consulate

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