An immigration detainee being held at the Commonwealth of the Northern Mariana Islands (CNMI) Department of Corrections died early Sunday, authorities say.
Corrections Commissioner Anthony Torres identified the detainee as Lian Yong Wei and said staff found him during routine checks at the prison on Saipan.
Staff immediately initiated an emergency medical response, and Wei was transported to the Commonwealth Health Center, where he was pronounced dead.
The department said it would not release protected health information, including information about Lian’s medical condition.
The Department of Public Safety and other appropriate investigative authorities have been notified, along with US Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE).
The circumstances surrounding Lian’s death remain under investigation.
According to the Department of Corrections, Lian was initially brought into custody on charges of disturbing the peace, assault, assault and battery, aggravated assault and battery, assault with a dangerous weapon, and an immigration violation.
The department said it was reviewing its procedures following the death and will make any necessary changes to strengthen prevention and emergency response measures.
“The Department extends its condolences to the family of Mr Wei,” Torres said.
Further information will be released as the investigation progresses, the department said.
