On January 16, 2025, a Border Patrol Agent piloting an unmanned aircraft system (UAS) observed a group of suspected illegal aliens scaling the border barrier near Clint, Texas. The incident occurred approximately 7.9 miles southeast of the Ysleta-Zaragoza International Bridge in El Paso, Texas.
The UAS pilot provided location information to other agents in the area who were able to observe the group as they climbed over the barrier and moved further into U.S. territory. Shortly after, it was reported that one individual appeared injured and was assisted by others in the group.
At around 7:15 a.m., Border Patrol Agents found an unresponsive male at the scene and requested emergency medical services. The man was identified as a citizen of Honduras. Agents applied an automated external defibrillator (AED) and performed CPR but received no response from him.
Emergency medical services arrived at approximately 7:37 a.m., taking over primary care and transporting the man to Del Sol Medical Center in El Paso, where he was pronounced deceased at 8:32 a.m.
Interviews conducted by CBP's Office of Professional Responsibility revealed that fellow travelers did not witness any injury while scaling the barrier. They reported that about ten minutes after crossing, the man complained of feeling faint and pointed to his chest. There were no known pre-existing conditions disclosed by those with him.
The El Paso County Office of the Medical Examiner took custody for an autopsy, with CBP OPR requesting access to its findings. An internal review is ongoing, and the Department of Homeland Security Office of Inspector General has been notified.
"U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) is America's frontline: the nation's largest law enforcement organization," stated CBP officials regarding their role in protecting national security through various means including collaboration and innovation.
