American woman who died at DGM center received protection and medical care

Santo Domingo. The General Directorate of Migration informed the country and the international community about the death of the U.S. citizen Ellen Frances Hulett, which occurred on June 23, 2025, while under institutional supervision and receiving medical attention. Highlighting that this case has been addressed with the utmost institutional rigor, respect for human rights, and in close collaboration with the diplomatic authorities of the United States and other international organizations.

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Mrs. Hulett was arrested on April 22, 2025, in the town of Sabana de la Mar by members of the Tourist Police, because she was homeless, wandering, showing signs of disconnection from reality, unable to identify herself, and amid reports of alleged assault. She was referred to the General Directorate of Migration, in its capacity as the competent authority to control the stay of foreigners in the country, with the aim of validating her identity and clarifying her situation. In turn, they stated that for weeks, they conducted multiple interviews. The person showed serious difficulties in communicating, inability to identify themselves, and behaviors that evidenced a mental health condition. They were evaluated by mental health professionals, diagnosed with a psychotic disorder, and received treatment under constant medical supervision.

Faced with the impossibility of confirming her identity by conventional methods, they resorted to advanced biometric tools, including facial recognition technology, which allowed them to identify her as Ellen Frances Hulett, a citizen of the United States of America.

They added that they guaranteed decent conditions, involved interpreters and legal representatives, and maintained active communication with diplomatic authorities to manage their migratory situation and facilitate their repatriation. On June 23, while being prepared for a routine medical checkup, health personnel detected that he showed no vital signs. The National Institute of Forensic Sciences (INACIF), the Public Ministry, and the DICRIM were immediately notified. The body showed no signs of violence, and is under autopsy to accurately determine the cause of death.