Daphy Michel, a 31-year-old Haitian asylum seeker, was found dead of hypothermia at a bus stop in Pittsburgh on March 2, three days after her release from ICE custody. The Allegheny County Medical Examiner's office ruled her death a homicide this week.
According to spokesperson Jim Madalinsky, Michel was a vulnerable adult with untreated severe mental health issues and a significant language barrier when released from federal custody on February 27. He clarified that a medical examiner's homicide declaration does not imply criminal guilt but indicates that another individual's actions caused the death.
Michel began the asylum process upon arriving at the southern border in 2022 and was granted humanitarian parole. Her family's attorney, Joseph Patrick Murphy, stated that she had spent six months in jail prior to her ICE detention and had been arrested for making threats against imaginary people. Murphy criticized the circumstances of her release, stating that she was left at a bus shelter without adequate support.
Murphy noted that the medical examiner's ruling suggests some level of culpability for her death. However, the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) denied responsibility, asserting that ICE had no involvement in her death, which occurred three days after their encounter with her. DHS also mentioned previous charges against Michel that had been dismissed.
Advocates are calling for accountability from ICE regarding Michel's death. Representative Summer Lee (D-Pa) stated that Michel's death was preventable and highlighted systemic failures in providing care and support to vulnerable individuals.
Michel's case is part of a broader concern regarding the treatment of individuals released from ICE detention, with other high-profile cases also raising questions about the agency's practices. Michel's family described her as a kind-hearted person who brought joy to those around her.