A Bulgarian man living in Chicago has died while in the custody of U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement, triggering political concern in the United States and raising questions about a possible official response from Bulgaria.
Nenko Ganchev, 56, was found unresponsive in his cell at the North Lake Correctional Facility in Baldwin, Michigan. The privately run prison is operated by GEO Group under contract with ICE.
According to ICE, staff discovered Ganchev during routine checks and immediately attempted lifesaving measures. Emergency services were called, but he was pronounced dead at the scene.
The Department of Homeland Security initially described the death as resulting from “suspected natural causes.” Officials said the final cause remains under review, pending medical and autopsy findings.
Ganchev’s family disputes that characterization. Relatives and friends say his health deteriorated significantly during detention, particularly due to complications from type 2 diabetes.
They allege that he repeatedly sought medical attention and did not receive appropriate care. Concerns were also raised about diet, stress, and prolonged confinement worsening his condition.
Ganchev had lived in the United States for more than 30 years. He owned a small trucking business in Chicago and was married to a U.S. citizen.
According to his wife, he was arrested in September while attending a scheduled green card interview at the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services office in Chicago. ICE agents took him into custody during the appointment.
Court records show Ganchev had been granted lawful permanent resident status in 2005. However, a removal order issued in 2023 led to his detention during a recent immigration enforcement sweep.
A federal judge later approved his release on bond, citing no threat to public safety. That decision was blocked by the Seventh Circuit Court of Appeals, keeping him in detention.
The North Lake facility has faced long-standing criticism from advocacy groups. Detainees and watchdog organizations have alleged overcrowding and insufficient medical staffing at the prison.
U.S. lawmakers responded strongly following Ganchev’s death. Congresswoman Delia Ramirez called for a “transparent and immediate investigation” into the circumstances surrounding his medical treatment.
Representative Rashida Tlaib joined Ramirez in noting that 2025 has become the deadliest year on record for deaths in ICE custody, with at least 30 reported nationwide.
Legal groups argue that Ganchev’s death highlights systemic failures within the immigration detention system. They point to the use of private prisons and limited oversight as contributing factors.
Michigan law prohibits the use of state or local jails for ICE detainees, making private facilities like North Lake central to federal detention operations in the state.
ICE and DHS have denied allegations of neglect, describing claims of mistreatment as false. Officials say detainees receive medical care consistent with federal standards.
Meanwhile, Ganchev’s family says communication from ICE has been minimal. His wife has requested detailed explanations, autopsy results, and access to his remains.
As of now, Bulgarian authorities have not announced an official reaction. However, diplomatic sources indicate Sofia may seek information through consular channels.
Ganchev’s death has renewed debate over immigration enforcement, detainee rights, and international accountability. For his family, it has become a painful fight for answers and justice.