U.S. border patrol agents who responded to, and ended, the recent school shooting in Uvalde, Texas, acted courageously, according to U.S. Department of Homeland Security Secretary Alejandro N. Mayorkas.
In a May 25 news release, Mayorkas noted the Department was "horrified by this callous act of violence" and wished a speedy recovery to everyone injured during the incident. He also commented on the border patrol agents on the scene, many of whom come from Uvalde and surrounding communities.
"Without hesitation, they put themselves between the shooter and students to end the bloodshed and administer medical aid," Mayorkas said in the release. "Without question, their heroism yesterday saved lives. A border patrol agent was injured in the crossfire yesterday, and we know the loss and trauma from this tragedy will continue to impact many other CBP families for a long time to come.
DHS is coordinating with federal, state and local law enforcement in the aftermath and is "offering our full support to the Uvalde community," Mayorkas said in the release.
"As we pray for the families and loved ones and recognize the bravery of frontline law enforcement personnel, we must redouble our collective efforts to make our communities safer," he said.
In the release, he shared his condolences and regret for the lives lost.
"No words can come close to comforting the families of those lost in Uvalde yesterday," Mayorkas said in the statement. "We grieve for the families and loved ones of the children and teachers lost."
