Full Breakdown
Afghan Father Dies in ICE Custody: Circumstances and Reactions
3/16/2026, 9:18:22 PM
Incident Overview
Mohammad Nazeer Paktiawal, a 41-year-old Afghan immigrant and former U.S. military ally, died in the custody of U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) in Texas less than 24 hours after his detention. Paktiawal was arrested on March 13, 2026, while dropping his six children off at school in Richardson, Texas. His death was reported on March 14, following a series of medical emergencies while in custody.
Background of the Individual
Paktiawal immigrated to the United States in 2021 under the Biden administration's Operation Allies Refuge, which facilitated the relocation of Afghan allies after the Taliban's takeover. He had worked with U.S. Army Special Forces for over a decade, contributing to military efforts in Afghanistan. His family asserts that he had no known health issues prior to his detention.
Circumstances of Detention and Death
According to ICE, Paktiawal was taken into custody due to an expired temporary parole status, which was set to end on August 20, 2025. ICE also noted a criminal history, including arrests for theft and SNAP fraud. However, his family disputes the characterization of his legal status, claiming he had a pending immigration case at the time of his arrest.
During his brief time in ICE custody, Paktiawal reported experiencing shortness of breath and chest pains. He was transported to Parkland Hospital, where he was treated for respiratory issues and placed under observation. On the morning of March 14, hospital staff observed swelling of his tongue, and despite resuscitation efforts, he was pronounced dead shortly thereafter.
Official Statements & Responses
ICE confirmed Paktiawal's death and stated that it is committed to ensuring the safety and humane treatment of individuals in custody. However, the agency's focus on Paktiawal's criminal history has drawn criticism. The Council on American-Islamic Relations – Texas (CAIR-Texas) called for a full investigation into the circumstances surrounding his death, emphasizing the need for accountability and humane treatment of detainees.
Criticism & Opposition
Family members and advocacy groups have expressed outrage over the incident. Shawn VanDiver, president of AfghanEvac, highlighted the unusual nature of a healthy individual dying shortly after being taken into custody. Critics argue that ICE's narrative has disproportionately emphasized Paktiawal's criminal history while neglecting his service to the U.S. military. CAIR-Texas's executive director, Mustafaa Carroll, stated, “Detention does not erase a person’s humanity,” urging for clarity and justice in the case.
Conflicting Reports & Gaps
There are discrepancies regarding Paktiawal's immigration status and the details surrounding his criminal history. While ICE maintains that he had an expired parole and a criminal record, family members assert that he was actively pursuing legal status in the U.S. Furthermore, the exact cause of death remains unclear, with calls for an independent investigation into the medical response during his custody.
What's Next
The incident has prompted calls for legislative action to improve oversight of immigration enforcement agencies and ensure humane treatment of detainees. Advocacy groups are pushing for the Dignity for Detained Immigrants Act, which aims to enhance transparency and due process protections for individuals in custody. The investigation into Paktiawal's death is ongoing, with community members and family seeking justice and accountability.
