A U.S. Border Patrol agent was involved in a fatal shooting on December 11, 2025, during an enforcement operation near the Rio Grande in Texas. According to U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP), agents from the Rio Grande Valley Sector Special Operations Detachment were conducting targeted operations about 5.66 miles west of the Rio Grande City Port of Entry when they observed several individuals wearing camouflage clothing walking north.
At approximately 4:14 p.m., agents approached the group and identified themselves as Border Patrol agents. The group attempted to flee toward Mexico. One agent tried to apprehend a man later identified as a 31-year-old Mexican citizen. At 4:18 p.m., the agent radioed that he was engaged in a fight and needed assistance.
CBP reported that after struggling with the individual for two minutes, the agent discharged his service firearm, striking the man three times. Other agents responded quickly, requested emergency medical services at 4:25 p.m., applied chest seals, and began CPR.
Starr County EMS arrived at 4:37 p.m., took over medical care, and transported the man to Starr County Hospital in Rio Grande City, Texas. He was pronounced dead at 5:08 p.m.
A forensic pathologist conducted an autopsy at Starr County’s request; official findings will be provided to CBP’s Office of Professional Responsibility upon completion of the report.
The incident is under investigation by the Texas Department of Public Safety – Ranger Division, while CBP’s Office of Professional Responsibility is also reviewing it. 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 and the world's first unified border management agency. The 67,000+ men and women of CBP protect America on the ground, in the air, and on the seas. We enforce safe, lawful travel and trade and ensure our country's economic prosperity. We enhance the nation's security through innovation, intelligence, collaboration, and trust," according to CBP.
This notification follows CBP policy regarding public notification procedures for deaths involving its personnel or those occurring in custody as well as reporting requirements outlined by Congress.
