Fact Check: "The cause of Noviello's death remains under investigation by the Department of Homeland Security."
What We Know
Johnny Noviello, a 49-year-old Canadian citizen, died while in the custody of U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) at the Bureau of Prisons Federal Detention Center in Miami on June 23, 2025. Medical staff attempted to revive him, but he was pronounced dead shortly thereafter by the Miami Fire Rescue Department (source-1). ICE confirmed that the cause of Noviello's death is still under investigation, and they have notified the Canadian consulate regarding the incident (source-2). Canadian officials have expressed their urgency in seeking more information from U.S. authorities about the circumstances surrounding his death (source-4).
Analysis
The claim that the cause of Noviello's death remains under investigation by the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) is supported by multiple credible sources. ICE has explicitly stated that the cause of death is under investigation (source-4), and this aligns with the standard procedure for deaths occurring in custody, where investigations are typically conducted by the DHS's Office of Inspector General (source-7).
The reliability of the sources reporting on this matter is generally high. The New York Times and USA Today are established news organizations known for their journalistic standards, which adds credibility to their reports (source-2, source-4). Additionally, ICE's own statements provide an official account of the events, further supporting the claim (source-1).
However, it is important to note that while the investigation is ongoing, the specific details regarding the cause of death have not been disclosed, which is common in such cases to respect the privacy of the deceased and their family (source-6). This lack of immediate information does not contradict the claim but rather underscores the ongoing nature of the investigation.
Conclusion
The claim that "the cause of Noviello's death remains under investigation by the Department of Homeland Security" is True. This is supported by official statements from ICE and corroborated by reputable news sources. The investigation is a standard procedure following any death in custody, ensuring that all circumstances surrounding the incident are thoroughly examined.
Sources
- Canadian national in ICE custody passes away
- Canadian Citizen Dies in ICE Custody in Florida
- Canadian dies in ICE custody at Florida detention center
- Canadian man held by ICE dies in South Florida federal facility
- Migrant deaths in ICE custody continue to spark concerns
- Johnny Noviello cause of death: Canadian man's family reveals years-long health condition after ICE death
- Migrant deaths in ICE custody spark concerns
