Executive Director Rebekah Salazar, Privacy and Diversity Office | U.S. Customs and Border Protection
On June 14, 2024, Border Patrol agents were alerted by remote cameras to a group of possible undocumented noncitizens located near the Rio Grande River in Eagle Pass, Texas. At approximately 6:00 a.m., agents arrived and began their search. By 7:51 a.m., they had apprehended four individuals but two others attempted to escape by swimming across a canal.
One individual successfully crossed the canal, while the other struggled midway. Despite agents' efforts to encourage him to swim back for assistance, he was swept away by the current. The Eagle Pass Fire Department joined the search but could not locate him after three hours.
The following day, Maverick County Sheriff’s Office reported finding a body about 4.7 miles downstream from where agents lost sight of the man. An adult male citizen of Guatemala surrendered himself near this location and was taken into custody.
CBP Office of Professional Responsibility interviewed the Guatemalan man who confirmed his presence during the incident and identified the deceased as their guide. He stated that upon encountering immigration officers, they were instructed to flee and swim across a canal where he heard cries for help from his guide.
The decedent's body was turned over to Webb County Medical Examiner without an autopsy due to apparent circumstances of death. CBP is reviewing the incident with notification given to DHS Office of Inspector General.
U.S. Customs and Border Protection remains committed as America's frontline law enforcement organization ensuring security through innovation and collaboration.
