Three adults charged, child returned to Canada after dangerous river crossing
Grand Island, NY – U.S. Border Patrol agents arrested three adults after authorities say they crossed the Upper Niagara River in a small rubber raft, an incident that also involved an infant found concealed near the shoreline. The crossing, described by officials as dangerous, prompted federal charges and the removal of one family member back to Canada.
According to U.S. Customs and Border Protection, agents assigned to the Buffalo Station responded on March 15 to reports of an illegal border crossing. Upon arrival, agents spotted a small rubber raft and one individual, then located an adult male Irish national, an adult female from the United Kingdom, and their infant hiding behind a nearby tree.
All four individuals had crossed into the United States from Canada via the river. Border Patrol agents took them into custody at the scene.
Smuggling charges and outstanding warrant
Authorities identified the raft operator as a Mexican national with no prior criminal record. He has been charged with human smuggling, unlawful entry into the United States, and child endangerment.
The Irish national faces charges of illegal re-entry after deportation in June 2025. Officials also confirmed he was wanted in Rhode Island on felony assault charges and is expected to be extradited following federal immigration proceedings.
The woman and her infant were processed and removed to Canada, according to CBP.
Key Points
- Four individuals crossed Niagara River by raft, including an infant
- Smuggling suspect charged; one man also wanted on felony warrant
- Woman and child returned to Canada after processing
Officials warn of risks in illegal crossings
Federal officials emphasized the dangers associated with water crossings, particularly involving children.
“Crossing the border illegally is dangerous under any circumstances, but taking an infant across the freezing Niagara River in a small raft is especially reckless,” said Acting Chief Patrol Agent James D’Amato of the U.S. Border Patrol Buffalo Sector. “This kind of risk endangers not just the adults, but the life of a very young child and the Border Patrol agents who put their lives at risk every day securing our nation’s borders.”
The Buffalo Sector oversees 341 miles of international maritime border, including portions of Lake Erie, Lake Ontario, the Niagara River, and the Saint Lawrence Seaway. The jurisdiction spans approximately 153,000 square miles across multiple states and Washington, D.C.
Officials are asking the public to report suspicious activity to Border Patrol as part of ongoing enforcement efforts.