Skip to main content

An official website of the United States government

Official websites use .gov
A .gov website belongs to an official government organization in the United States.

Secure .gov websites use HTTPS
A lock ( ) or https:// means you’ve safely connected to the .gov website. Share sensitive information only on official, secure websites.

  1. Home
  2. Newsroom
  3. Local Media Release
  4. MS-13 gang member and smugglers arrested by Rio Grande Valley Border Patrol Agents

MS-13 gang member and smugglers arrested by Rio Grande Valley Border Patrol Agents

Release Date
Fri, 10/20/2017

FALFURRIAS, Texas - Agents encountered an aggravated murderer and foiled two smuggling attempts at the checkpoint.

On Tuesday, October 10, 2017, agents apprehended a Salvadoran national near Falfurrias, Texas. During processing, it was discovered the man was a member of the notoriously deadly Mara Salvatrucha gang, also known as MS-13. Record checks indicate the man was charged with Aggravated Homicide in El Salvador on June 15, 2011.

On Tuesday, October 17, 2017, agents assigned to the Falfurrias Checkpoint were conducting immigration inspections when a passenger car driven by a United States citizen approached the primary inspection lane. Upon investigation, an illegal alien was discovered concealed in the trunk.

Hours later, a second United States citizen approached the primary inspection lane. Upon investigation, an illegal alien was discovered concealed in the trunk.

Both drivers were arrested and will face alien smuggling charges.

All subjects will be processed accordingly.

The public is encouraged to take a stand against crime in their communities and to help save lives by reporting suspicious activity at 800-863-9382.

Please visit www.cbp.gov to view additional news releases and other information pertaining to U.S. Customs and Border Protection. Follow us on Twitter at @CBPRGV.

Last Modified: Feb 03, 2021