On July 14, 2024, Border Patrol Agents (BPAs) monitoring a remote video surveillance system spotted a silver SUV picking up suspected undocumented noncitizens near the Santa Teresa, New Mexico Port of Entry. The vehicle was located at the New Mexico/Texas border by BPAs who attempted to stop it. However, the driver fled at high speed and lost control, resulting in the vehicle rolling over.
Texas Department of Public Safety troopers arrived shortly after and took control of the scene. Emergency medical services were called for several injured occupants. Among them was a female Guatemalan citizen found pinned under the vehicle. The El Paso Fire Department extracted her and provided medical assistance before transporting her to University Medical Center of El Paso.
The woman was admitted in critical condition but was pronounced deceased on July 18, 2024. An autopsy determined her death resulted from accidental blunt force trauma.
The CBP Office of Professional Responsibility is reviewing the incident, with notification made to the Department of Homeland Security Office of Inspector General.
U.S. Customs and Border Protection describes itself as "America's frontline," emphasizing its role in safeguarding national security through various means.