Teen Dies One Day After Parents’ Release From ICE Custody

An 18-year-old Chicago-born cancer patient, Kevin Gonzalez, has died just one day after reuniting with his parents in Durango, Mexico, following their release from U.S. immigration custody.

Kevin, who had stage 4 colon cancer, passed away Sunday afternoon surrounded by family, according to relatives who confirmed his death to NBC Chicago/Telemundo Chicago.

He was diagnosed earlier this year in Chicago after seeking treatment for severe stomach pain. Doctors later said the cancer had spread to his stomach and lungs and was no longer treatable, recommending comfort care.

After his diagnosis, Kevin’s parents, Isidoro González Avilés and Norma Anabel Ramírez Amaya, attempted to enter the United States to see him but were detained by ICE in Arizona after crossing without authorization.

The Department of Homeland Security said the couple was denied visas due to previous unlawful presence and re-entries. While his parents were in detention, Kevin returned to Mexico to stay with his grandmother and later publicly pleaded for their release.

On Thursday, a federal judge ordered the expedited release of Kevin’s parents. They were deported to Mexico on Friday and reunited with him in Durango on Saturday.

The emotional reunion was described by family as deeply moving. Kevin’s mother said, “I didn’t imagine seeing him so thin, the way he is.” His father added, “I knelt on his feet, I told him I was sorry if I ever disappointed him as a father and that I loved him.”

Kevin spent his final hours with family and died Sunday afternoon with his parents by his side.