On August 1, 2026, beloved Edwin Jovanny Lopez Cornejo lost his life after being detained by Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE). He was only 39 years old.

Edwin was a loving father, a devoted son, and a hardworking member of his community who had lived in New Jersey for more than 20 years. He was a man who cared deeply for his family, especially his young daughter, and worked every day to build a better future for those he loved.

On June 18, 2026, Edwin was detained by ICE outside of his home and taken to Delaney Hall detention center in Newark, New Jersey. While in detention, Edwin was reportedly denied the consistent medical care and medications he needed to manage his diabetes, high blood pressure, and seizure disorder. This is when Oscar, Edwin's brother reached out to us.

On the evening of July 31, Edwin called his mother. He told her that he was feeling very sick, that he could not feel half of his face or his right hand, and that he planned to request medical attention. He hoped he would receive the care he desperately needed.

The next day, his condition worsened. Even though detention staff were aware that Edwin was ill, they did not act until after he collapsed. Later that evening, Edwin's mother received a heartbreaking phone call from University Hospital in Newark informing her that her son had died and asking her to come identify his body. This came as a shock because the detention facility never told Edwin’s mother or his attorney that Edwin was even at the hospital.

Today, Edwin's family is facing an unimaginable tragedy. Along with overwhelming grief, they must now carry the financial burden of funeral and burial expenses while trying to support one another through this painful loss.

Oscar, Edwin's brother, is asking our community to come together to help ease this burden.

Your donation will help cover:

• Funeral expenses

• Immediate support for Edwin's family as they mourn this devastating loss

No family should have to worry about how they will afford to lay their loved one to rest while grieving such a profound loss.

If you are unable to donate, you can still make a meaningful difference by sharing Edwin's story and keeping his family in your thoughts and prayers.

Thank you for standing with Edwin's family during this incredibly difficult time. Every contribution, no matter the amount, helps honor Edwin's life and gives his family the opportunity to say goodbye with the dignity and love he deserves.

The National Day Laborer Organizing Network (NDLON) is in contact with Edwin's brother, Oscar. Oscar will be receiving Edwin's body and managing the funeral services. Additionally, he will be receiving all the funds from this fundraiser directly. Oscar reached out to us soon after Edwin was detained and we were devestated to hear about his passing