LAREDO, Texas – In a dangerous trend that occurred within hours of each other on the same day, Laredo Sector Border Patrol agents rendered aid to lost individuals throughout Webb County.
The first incident occurred at approximately 8:20 p.m. on July 6, when agents from the Laredo South Station encountered an unresponsive individual on a ranch near El Cenizo, Texas. Agents requested medical assistance and Border Patrol Search, Trauma, and Rescue (BORSTAR) agents immediately responded to administer intravenous (IV) fluids and oxygen. The individual, a Mexican citizen in the country illegally, was transported by ambulance to the nearest hospital, where he was treated for dehydration and kidney failure. He remains in Border Patrol custody pending his medical treatment and clearance.
The second incident occurred later that evening, after agents from the Laredo South Station received a report from Mexican Emergency Services (MES) of an individual lost on a ranch near the Webb and Zapata County line. According to MES, the individual had been lost for a full day with no food or water. Agents were able to quickly locate the individual, a Mexican national in the country illegally. He was given water and monitored for signs of dehydration. After responding favorably to the aid provided, he was taken into custody and processed accordingly.
The Laredo Sector Border Patrol cannot stress enough the dangers and risks posed by illegal entry and traveling through remote areas during the high temperatures of summer. Despite the presence of the COVID-19 pandemic, Laredo Sector agents will continue to render aid to those exploited and abandoned by human smugglers.
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.
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