Coroner Determines Immigrant Girl’s Death on Chicago-Bound Bus from Texas Was Due to Infection and Other Factors

MARION, Ill. — An autopsy reveals that a 3-year-old girl’s death on a bus carrying immigrants from Texas to Chicago last month was caused by a bacterial infection and other factors, according to the Marion County Coroner, Troy Cannon.

The coroner states that the bacterial infection, along with aspiration pneumonia, diarrhea, and vomiting, led to electrolyte problems, brain swelling, and ultimately the death of Jismary Alejandra Barboza González on August 10. Additionally, the child’s extremely low weight and height for her age were contributing factors in her death.

The child began experiencing mild symptoms and feeling ill as the family boarded the bus in Brownsville, Texas. At that time, she had a low-grade fever, but was still allowed to board the bus. However, during the trip, her symptoms worsened and she developed vomiting, diarrhea, a lack of appetite, and dehydration. She was given electrolyte drinks and her temperature was measured at 100.1 degrees Fahrenheit (37.8 degrees Celsius). As the trip continued, her condition deteriorated further and she began to have difficulty breathing.

The bus was part of a program initiated by Texas Governor Greg Abbott last year, which involved sending migrants crossing into the state to Democratic-led cities across the country.

The child’s great aunt, Gisela Gonzalez, stated that the family had set out for the United States in May from their home in Colombia, where Jismary was born.