A 20-year-old Haitian immigrant in the United States died Monday in what his family believes was a suicide, after telling his father he felt ashamed and humiliated about having to wear an ankle monitor.
Pierre Damas Bel, who lived in Springfield, Ohio, had recently graduated with honours and aspired to study medicine. Relatives said he had become increasingly distressed after losing Temporary Protected Status and being placed under electronic monitoring by US immigration authorities.
According to a statement from his father, the two were speaking by phone shortly before the incident.
Bel entered the United States legally in 2024, according to US Immigration and Customs Enforcement.
His death comes as Haitian immigrants in the United States face continued uncertainty over their immigration status following changes to Temporary Protected Status protections.
The US Department of Homeland Security has moved to end TPS protections for hundreds of thousands of Haitians, leaving many at risk of losing their legal status and potentially facing detention or deportation.
Electronic monitoring has become increasingly common among Haitian immigrants navigating the US immigration system. Haitians placed on ankle monitors have reported concerns about discomfort, swelling and blisters, as well as difficulties wearing the devices while working.
Last week, the US Department of Homeland Security sent two deportation flights to Haiti, according to reports. The flights included children, including a three-year-old child born in the United States.
EDITOR’S NOTE: In keeping with World Health Organisation guidance on responsible reporting of suicide, St Lucia Times has chosen not to publish details about the method or circumstances of the death beyond what is necessary to understand the story. This decision is intended to provide accurate, responsible reporting while avoiding unnecessary details that may cause harm.Â
If you or someone you know is struggling with thoughts of suicide or experiencing emotional distress, seek support from a mental health professional, a trusted person, or the National Mental Health Helpline in Saint Lucia by dialling 203.
