HIDALGO, Texas – Five migrants suffering from gunshot wounds were encountered on the banks of the Rio Grande early Monday morning. The incident is indicative of the dangers migrants face while undertaking the journey into the United States.
On October 4, at approximately 12:39 a.m., Border Patrol agents from the McAllen Station responded to illegal activity near Hidalgo, Texas and encountered 11 migrants. The five migrants suffering gunshot wounds sustained in Mexico, prior to their entry into the U.S. were immediately provided lifesaving treatment by agents before emergency medical assistance was requested. Hidalgo Police Department officers arrived on scene as well, as the migrants were transported to a local hospital.
An investigation is currently underway to determine the circumstances of the shooting.
Rio Grande Valley Sector Chief Patrol Agent Brian S. Hastings stated, “This encounter serves as yet another reminder of the dangers migrants face when they place their well-being in the hands of smugglers who are only interested in turning a profit. Smugglers routinely place migrants in dangerous situations where they are at risk of drowning, exposure to the elements and assault.”
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U.S. Customs and Border Protection is the unified border agency within the Department of Homeland Security charged with the management, control and protection of our nation’s borders at and between official ports of entry. CBP is charged with securing the borders of the United States while enforcing hundreds of laws and facilitating lawful trade and travel.