Full Breakdown
Beaverton Father Paulino Martin Dies After Deportation to Mexico
2/22/2026, 10:28:08 PM
Timeline of Events Leading to Paulino Martin's Death
Paulino Martin San Pedro, a 53-year-old father from Beaverton, Oregon, was detained by U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) on November 18, 2025, while on his way to lunch with his wife. Within three days, he was deported to Mexico, a country he had not lived in for over 30 years. Shortly after his deportation, Martin was hospitalized and ultimately died from pneumonia on February 16, 2026. His family, who had been fighting for his return, reported that they faced significant financial burdens during his hospitalization, including medical and legal expenses.
Family's Response and Criticism of ICE
Martin's son, Eric Martin San Juan, expressed profound grief and anger over his father's treatment, stating, “They threw my dad out like an animal, and now I have no dad.” He attributed his father's deteriorating health to the trauma of being detained and deported, arguing that had his father remained in the U.S., he would have had a better chance of recovery. The family has criticized ICE and the federal government, claiming that the rapid deportation process lacked due process and left them without the opportunity to support Martin during his illness.
Community Reaction and Advocacy
The circumstances surrounding Martin's detention and subsequent death have sparked outrage within the Beaverton community. Local residents and immigration advocates have rallied to demand answers and greater transparency from federal officials regarding immigration enforcement practices. A vigil is planned in Beaverton to honor Martin, and a GoFundMe campaign has been established to help cover funeral and legal costs, raising over $41,000 towards a goal of $70,000.
Official Statements and Responses
The Department of Homeland Security (DHS) has not provided a response to inquiries regarding Martin's detention and deportation. The family reported that they received no timely notification about his removal, raising questions about the procedures followed by ICE. Community members continue to press local leaders and federal officials for clearer answers and reforms to prevent similar situations in the future.
Verbatim Quotes
- “The day my dad was taken, I felt like my dad had died, that’s how extreme it felt, and now that he has died,” — Eric Martin San Juan, Son
- “I thoroughly blame ICE, I blame our government because there is a better way to do all of this besides shipping people away.” — Eric Martin San Juan, Son
- “These are the things that happen when your father is taken away, your mother, it doesn’t matter who it is, this is the reality.” — Eric Martin San Juan, Son
What's Next
As the family mourns their loss, they are also exploring potential legal options regarding the circumstances of Martin's deportation. The community remains engaged, advocating for changes in immigration policy to ensure that families are not subjected to similar traumatic experiences in the future.
