U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) officers at the Laredo Port of Entry have apprehended a man wanted for homicide in Arkansas. The incident took place on March 7 when CBP officers at the Juarez-Lincoln Bridge stopped Luis Antonio Vega Romero, a 43-year-old Mexican citizen, who was traveling as a bus passenger.
Port Director Albert Flores emphasized the importance of such arrests, stating, "Bringing a fugitive to justice is not only about the arrest, but also about honoring the lives lost in this particular incident and ensuring accountability." He highlighted the role of interagency collaboration in capturing individuals wanted by law enforcement.
During a secondary inspection, officers used biometric verification and federal databases to confirm Vega Romero's identity. They discovered he was wanted on an active felony warrant for negligent vehicular homicide and manslaughter issued by the Prairie County Sheriff’s Office in Des Arc, Arkansas. Following confirmation of the warrant, CBP officers transferred Vega Romero to Webb County jail pending criminal proceedings.
In Arkansas, charges of "negligent homicide," also known as "vehicular homicide," apply when a motorist negligently causes another person's death while driving. This offense is categorized as a Class C felony.
It is important to note that criminal charges are merely allegations and defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty in court.
The public can follow updates from CBP’s Laredo Field Office on X at @DFOLaredo and Instagram at @dfolaredo. U.S. Customs and Border Protection can be followed at @CBPSouthTexas for news and stories.
CBP is recognized as America's largest law enforcement organization and serves as the world's first unified border management agency with over 65,000 personnel. The agency ensures national security through innovative measures while facilitating lawful travel and trade.