LAREDO, Texas – U.S. Border Patrol agents rescued several individuals hidden inside a grain hopper train car as they dangerously attempted to further their entry into the United States by train near Bruni, Texas.
During the very early morning of August 29, the railroad company notified agents from the Hebbronville Station about several individuals illegally traveling on a cargo train. Agents coordinated efforts with the railroad company to safely inspect the train. Agents located 23 individuals in a grain hopper train car and noticed that none were wearing any personal protective equipment in close quarters . The individuals included two U.S. citizen juveniles and 21 others determined to be in the United States illegally from the countries of Mexico, Honduras, Ecuador, Cuba, and Guatemala. All were taken into custody by the U.S. Border Patrol pending prosecution.
This dangerous method of illegal furtherance into the United States is strongly discouraged as it often results in serious injury or death. The Laredo Sector Border Patrol continues to warn against the dangers of people crossing illegally into the United States through dangerous and hazardous means. Laredo Sector Chief Patrol Agent Matthew J. Hudak said, “Smugglers put 21 people inside of a grain hopper, a confined and extremely dangerous space, and are now facing felony prosecution. This case highlights how careless smugglers are with people’s lives. They are willing to put multiple lives at risk to make a profit.”
The Laredo Sector Border Patrol is committed to the Mission of the agency to protect the American people by safeguarding our borders and enhancing the Nation’s economic prosperity.
To report suspicious activity such as alien and/or drug smuggling, download the “USBP Laredo Sector” App or contact the Laredo Sector Border Patrol toll free at 1-800-343-1994. If you see something, please say something. You can also follow us on our social media platforms on Twitter and Instagram @usbpchieflrt and @usbpdepchieflrt and on Facebook at US Border Patrol Laredo Sector.
