‘Have you ever smelled a cadaver?’ Family recounts horror after Costa Rican man deported in vegetative state

The Guardian1/11/2026 • Last cited 1/11/2026

Summary

Randall Gamboa Esquivel, a 52-year-old man, was deported from the U.S. to Costa Rica in a vegetative state, leaving his family seeking answers about the circumstances surrounding his condition while in federal custody in Texas, according to The Guardian. His sister, Greidy Mata, expressed her distress over the stark contrast between his vibrant past and his current state, highlighting the family's emotional turmoil.

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Lindy Score Breakdown

23
Age (0-35)
3 days
8
Velocity (0-40)
2 sources (low traction)
8
Tier (0-10)
The Guardian
3
Breadth (0-15)
2 unique
Total Score42/100

AnalysisRisk 20

Source Reputation: Moderate trust (8/20 pts)
Consensus: Emerging consensus: 2 sources
Age: 3 days - proven survivor

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