Samuel Gonzalez Terrones: A Heartbreaking Story of Immigration and Mental Health

In May, Samuel Gonzalez Terrones, at 21, faced a challenging diagnosis of depression and schizophrenia. Although he commenced therapy and medication, he was overwhelmed by negative thoughts, sometimes necessitating police intervention. The month following his diagnosis, his mother, Minerva Terrones Dominguez, faced her own ordeal. Immigration agents detained her in San Bernardino for being in the country illegally, exacerbating Samuel’s fragile mental state.

With Minerva in detention, Samuel grew increasingly despondent. His family supported him financially, taking extra shifts to afford an immigration lawyer. Yet, Samuel struggled to hold a steady job due to his condition, spending much time alone at their home in Rialto.

“My mom was the one who would take care of him when he would have those bad thoughts,” explained his older sister Sari Gonzalez, 32. She described how Minerva was his anchor during difficult times. A legal strategy was devised by lawyer Arturo Burga, aiming to prove that Minerva’s deportation would cause Samuel, a U.S. citizen, extreme hardship. Unfortunately, the paperwork never made it through.

“To the ICE agent who took away my mother: I hope it was worth it,” Samuel wrote in a letter before his death, expressing despair over injustices he couldn’t handle anymore.

Suicide prevention resources are critical. If you or a loved one experiences suicidal thoughts, seek professional help or dial 988 to contact trained mental health counselors. Alternatively, text “HOME” to 741741 for the Crisis Text Line.

Motivations for suicide are often complex. It remains uncertain how immigration policies impact individuals. Reports indicate similar tragedies, such as a 20-year-old Haitian man in Springfield, Ohio, who walked into traffic after losing Temporary Protected Status. Since President Trump took office, at least 10 detainees have reportedly died by suicide, despite an increase in detainee population. ICE has not commented.

Described by family as a caring and generous person, Samuel struggled with mental health issues that surfaced during his time at Cajon High School. Passion for activities waned. Samuel’s siblings sought various ways to support him: video games, adulthood discussions, church, and landscaping jobs.

Sari revealed how Samuel tried hard to improve his mental state, enduring for a long time. “He really did try to get better,” she said. “I’m proud of him for being so strong.” When Minerva was detained, Samuel and Sari were at home. ICE agents mocked Minerva upon discovering her EBT card.

Minerva’s history in the U.S. spans 33 years, with no arrests or convictions, and no prior removal proceedings, her lawyer stated. Sari was given an hour to retrieve her mother’s belongings and bid farewell before Minerva was moved to a detention center. Samuel was devastated. “I’ve never seen him cry like that,” Sari recounted.

Sari worked extra hours and visited Minerva with Samuel and their youngest sister on Sundays at Adelanto ICE Processing Center. Their travel involved waiting early for visitation, showing Samuel’s happiness while visiting, followed by emotional returns home.

The legal costs burdened the family financially. Samuel spent less time with siblings, withdrawing into his room. The law firm informed ICE of Samuel’s death, requesting Minerva’s humanitarian release. Amber Burga expressed dismay at the necessity of suicide to prompt compassion.

Sari delayed telling Minerva due to her upcoming court hearing. The in-person news was delivered under strict visitation controls, not allowing hugs during the emotional moment.

Judge Brianna Fuller Mircheff ordered Minerva’s release, citing unlawful detention. She highlighted improper detention practices affecting many individuals. Federal government lawyers suggested waiting six months for a bond hearing, a notion Mircheff rejected as “beyond cruel.” Despite release, Minerva remains in deportation proceedings. Without Samuel, her legal case no longer stands. Sari now considers joining the U.S. military for immigration benefits for undocumented parents.

A fundraiser was organized for Samuel’s funeral costs. Family and friends gathered on Sept. 22 to mourn at Rialto Park Cemetery, each carrying roses. Sari sobbed while Minerva mourned her son.