FATAL ENCOUNTERS WITH CBP SINCE 2010

Updated April 25, 2022

The U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP), which includes the Border Patrol, is the largest federal law enforcement agency in the country. CBP’s lack of accountability and oversight paired with its culture of violence has resulted in the loss of lives of U.S. citizens and noncitizens. No agent in the 90 year history of the agency has been successfully convicted of a killing while on duty. 

SBCC has tracked these deaths based on media coverage and press releases from CBP at the time of these incidents. Since January 2010, at least 200 people have died as the result of an encounter with a CBP agent. Many more have been brutalized, in some cases causing life-altering injuries. These deaths are an undercount. According to a 2020 report from the Government Accountability Office, CBP does not have reliable information on deaths and has not consistently reported death-related information to Congress.

According to SBCC's analysis, 58 of these deaths were caused by an on-duty CBP agent’s use of force including a fatal shooting, asphyxiation, a Taster, beating or a chemical agent. Another 74 deaths were due to vehicle collisions involving Border Patrol, the majority (63) of which occurred during high-speed car chases initiated by Border Patrol. In addition, 50 of the deaths were related to failure to provide adequate medical attention or medical emergencies, either while individuals were in CBP custody or directly after an encounter with agents. 15 deaths were homicides carried out by off-duty officers and in these cases, agents were often charged, convicted and sentenced to prison time. Twenty were due to unknown or other causes, including 4 cases of alleged suicide and 8 drownings.

For additional information about these encounters and data visualizations, please visit the Abuse of Power and Its Consequences page of Border Lens.

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2022

11 deaths

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217. Unknown
Age: 45
Nationality: Mexican
Cause of Death: Medical
Incident Date: March 19th 2022
Incident Location: La Pryor, Texas

On March 19, 2022, at approximately 7:54 a.m. CST, personnel at the U.S. Border Patrol’s Uvalde Station were notified by the Del Rio Border Intelligence Center of a 911 call placed by a 45-year-old undocumented Mexican migrant who indicated he was in medical distress and could no longer walk. The Border Intelligence Center was able to obtain coordinates during a telephone call with the man which placed him in a remote area approximately 18 miles west of La Pryor, Texas. A Border Patrol Agent responded to the area and began to search for him.The Border Patrol Agent located the man alone in a densely vegetated and secluded area at approximately 10:05 a.m. and transported him approximately 42.3 miles to the Uvalde Border Patrol Station for evaluation by CBP contracted medical personnel. The medical provider evaluated the man at approximately 11:51 a.m. and noted he complained about stomach pain and not having food nor water for several days. The medical provider determined his vitals were good and provided him with Pedialyte for his dehydration. CBP-contracted medical personnel monitored him and cleared him for travel once he said he felt better.A Border Patrol Agent transported the man at approximately 12:48 p.m. to the Uvalde Border Patrol checkpoint for further processing and detention. The man again complained of stomach pain while at the checkpoint, and a Border Patrol Agent/Emergency Medical Technician was requested. The EMT arrived a short time later and observed the man lying on the floor in the holding cell. Border Patrol Agents assisted him onto a bench where the EMT evaluated him and determined he needed additional medical assistance. Based on his current condition, the EMT decided to transport the man to the Uvalde Memorial Hospital in his Border Patrol vehicle instead of waiting for Uvalde Emergency Medical Services.The EMT arrived with the man at approximately 2:04 p.m. at Uvalde Memorial Hospital where medical personnel evaluated, stabilized and placed him on a ventilator. Medical personnel decided to transfer the man due to his condition to an advanced care facility at Metropolitan Methodist Hospital in San Antonio.The man was transported at approximately 4:30 p.m. to Metropolitan Methodist Hospital by a Uvalde Medical Services ambulance. The ambulance arrived at approximately 6:08 p.m. and the man was admitted into Metropolitan Methodist Hospital’s Medical Intensive Care Unit under CBP watch.The man succumbed to his ailments and was declared deceased by Metropolitan Methodist Hospital medical personnel on March 20, 2022, at approximately 9:48 a.m.

• https://www.cbp.gov/newsroom/speeches-and-statements/cbp-statement-death-migrant-found-remote-area

216. Unknown
Age: 4 years old
Nationality: Nicaragua
Cause of Death: Drowning
Incident Date: March 10th 2022
Incident Location: Eagle Pass, Texas

U.S. Border Patrol agents assigned to Eagle Pass South Station Marine Unit located a deceased individual in the Rio Grande March 10.Upon further investigation, the individual matched the description of a four-year-old child reported missing March 4.On March 4, a group of migrants was encountered by Texas National Guard soldiers near Eagle Pass. When agents responded, they were informed that a Nicaraguan women stated she had dropped her child in the river and was swept away. Border Patrol agents and air support searched the area but could not find the missing child. The child’s body was located by Marine Unit agents on the morning of March 10.

• https://www.cbp.gov/newsroom/local-media-release/eagle-pass-agents-recover-body-missing-child

215. Unknown
Age: Unknown
Nationality: U.S Citizen
Cause of Death: Fatal Car Chase
Incident Date: March 7th 2022
Incident Location: Amado, Arizona

On March 7, 2022, at approximately 11:07 p.m. MST, a Border Patrol camera operator observed a group of suspected undocumented migrants load into a vehicle on Interstate 19’s East Frontage Road, near Amado, Ariz. in the vicinity of kilometer post 42. This area is two-tenths of a mile south of Amado Mantosa Road and approximately 26 miles north of the Nogales Port of Entry. The camera operator alerted Border Patrol agents of the location via radio.A Border Patrol agent, driving an unmarked F150 pickup truck equipped for canine duty, responded to the area and observed a Blue Honda Ridgeline pickup truck pass him going northbound on East Frontage Road. As the vehicle passed him, the Border Patrol agent observed multiple people in the rear passenger area. Suspecting this was the vehicle identified by the camera operator, the Border Patrol agent caught up to the vehicle and attempted to perform a vehicle stop. The driver of the pickup truck failed to yield to the Border Patrol agent’s emergency equipment and a vehicle pursuit ensued. The pursuing Border Patrol agent requested assistance from Border Patrol agents in the area, and asked dispatch to notify air assets, the Arizona Department of Public Safety and Tucson Station Border Patrol agents. Two additional Border Patrol vehicles immediately responded. At approximately 11:10 p.m. MST, the driver of the pickup lost control of the vehicle. The vehicle collided with a tree and rolled over, resulting in two fatalities and several injuries. Border Patrol agents immediately rendered assistance and requested Emergency Medical Services from the surrounding areas.The driver, a male United States Citizen, and one of the passengers, a male Mexican Citizen, were pronounced dead at the scene. The remaining five occupants sustained serious injuries and were transported to the Banner University Medical Center in Tucson, Ariz.The Pima County Office of the Medical Examiner determined that both decedents died as a result of blunt force trauma.

• https://www.cbp.gov/newsroom/speeches-and-statements/two-dead-and-several-injured-following-rollover-crash-near-amado

214. Unknown
Age: Unknown
Nationality: Mexican
Cause of Death: Fatal Car Chase
Incident Date: March 7th 2022
Incident Location: Amado, Arizona

On March 7, 2022, at approximately 11:07 p.m. MST, a Border Patrol camera operator observed a group of suspected undocumented migrants load into a vehicle on Interstate 19’s East Frontage Road, near Amado, Ariz. in the vicinity of kilometer post 42. This area is two-tenths of a mile south of Amado Mantosa Road and approximately 26 miles north of the Nogales Port of Entry. The camera operator alerted Border Patrol agents of the location via radio.A Border Patrol agent, driving an unmarked F150 pickup truck equipped for canine duty, responded to the area and observed a Blue Honda Ridgeline pickup truck pass him going northbound on East Frontage Road. As the vehicle passed him, the Border Patrol agent observed multiple people in the rear passenger area. Suspecting this was the vehicle identified by the camera operator, the Border Patrol agent caught up to the vehicle and attempted to perform a vehicle stop. The driver of the pickup truck failed to yield to the Border Patrol agent’s emergency equipment and a vehicle pursuit ensued. The pursuing Border Patrol agent requested assistance from Border Patrol agents in the area, and asked dispatch to notify air assets, the Arizona Department of Public Safety and Tucson Station Border Patrol agents. Two additional Border Patrol vehicles immediately responded. At approximately 11:10 p.m. MST, the driver of the pickup lost control of the vehicle. The vehicle collided with a tree and rolled over, resulting in two fatalities and several injuries. Border Patrol agents immediately rendered assistance and requested Emergency Medical Services from the surrounding areas.The driver, a male United States Citizen, and one of the passengers, a male Mexican Citizen, were pronounced dead at the scene. The remaining five occupants sustained serious injuries and were transported to the Banner University Medical Center in Tucson, Ariz.The Pima County Office of the Medical Examiner determined that both decedents died as a result of blunt force trauma.

• https://www.cbp.gov/newsroom/speeches-and-statements/two-dead-and-several-injured-following-rollover-crash-near-amado

213. Carmelo Cruz-Marcos
Age: 32
Nationality: Mexican
Cause of Death: Fatal Shooting
Incident Date: February 19th 2022
Incident Location: Douglas AZ

On Saturday, February 19, 2022, the Cochise County Sheriff’s Office (CCSO) disclosed that a migrant was killed by a Border Patrol agent near Douglas, Arizona. The CCSO removed that statement in subsequent press releases, stating instead that the migrant was seriously injured and succumbed to his injuries. When asked about the removal, “the public information officer explained that it had not been reviewed by the proper channels,” raising questions about the change in narrative and who influenced it, including CBP and Border Patrol Critical Incident Teams (BPCITs).

• CBP statement on death of Mexican man after he was ejected from a vehicle following failure to yield near La Gloria, Texas

212. Unknown
Age: Unknown
Nationality: Haiti
Cause of Death: Medical
Incident Date: February 11, 2022
Incident Location: Yuma, AZ

On Jan. 20, 2022, a Border Patrol agent apprehended a group of 16 undocumented migrants, including a male citizen of Haiti, approximately two miles northwest of the San Luis Port of Entry. The group was transported to the Yuma Sector Centralized Processing Center (CPC). At approximately 4:01 p.m., the man arrived at the CPC.

At approximately 7:22 p.m., a Customs and Border Protection-contracted medical provider conducted a medical assessment of the man. With the assistance of a Haitian Creole interpreter, the man stated he had not eaten well for the past five months, he could not tolerate smells, and he was experiencing abdominal pain. The medical provider gave the man an electrolyte drink and observed his vitals improve. Medical personnel continued to monitor the man.

At approximately 9:01 p.m., with an interpreter, the man advised medical personnel he was unable to eat, was suffering from muscle pain, abdominal pain, and fatigue. A CBP-contracted medical provider recommended the man be taken to the hospital for further medical attention. A Border Patrol agent transported the man to the Yuma Regional Medical Center.

On Jan. 21, 2022, the man was admitted into Yuma Regional Medical Center for further evaluation. The man remained at the medical center for five days receiving medical attention for cholecystitis and COVID-19, while under CBP hospital watch.

On Jan. 26, 2022, at approximately 9:28 a.m., the man was released from Yuma Regional Medical Center and was transported back to the Central Processing Center where CBP-contracted medical personnel continued to monitor him.

On Jan. 27, 2022, at approximately 12:24 p.m., a CBP-contracted medical provider evaluated the man and provided him medication for upper respiratory congestion and fever. 

On Jan.28, 2022, a CBP-contracted medical provider evaluated the man and noted he was experiencing chills, fever, and nausea. The medical provider recommended the man be taken to the hospital for further medical attention.

On Jan. 28, 2022, at approximately 6:17 p.m., medical personnel recommended the man be taken to the hospital and a Border Patrol Agent transported him to the hospital.

The man was admitted to the hospital on Jan. 29, 2022, at approximately 3:51 a.m. He remained at the hospital while he received medical treatment for COVID-19, pneumonia, and cholecystitis. 

On Jan. 29, 2022, the man was issued a Notice to Appear/Own Recognizance and was released from CBP custody while he was at Yuma Regional Medical Center. 

On Feb. 2, 2022, at approximately 5:03 p.m., the man succumbed to his illness and was declared deceased by Yuma Regional Medical Center medical personnel.

On Feb. 8, 2022, CBP Office of Professional Responsibility received notification of the man’s death, approximately six days after his death as he was released from CBP custody more than a week earlier. Documents gathered by CBP Office of Professional Responsibility special agents indicated the man, while at the Central Processing Center, was seen by CBP-contracted medical personnel on five occasions.

On Feb. 9, 2022, Office of Professional Responsibility special agents received the medical examiner’s report. The report indicated the cause of death was determined to be acute respiratory distress syndrome, due to pneumonia and COVID-19.

https://www.cbp.gov/newsroom/speeches-and-statements/undocumented-migrant-apprehended-near-san-luis-port-entry-dies-yuma

211. Unknown
Age: Unknown
Nationality: Mexican
Cause of Death: Drowning
Incident Date: February 1, 2022
Incident Location: All American Canal (Calexico POE)

On Feb. 1, 2022, at approximately 3:17 p.m. PST, a Border Patrol remote camera operator spotted three individuals cross the border barrier and enter the All-American Canal, approximately two-tenths of a mile east of the Calexico East Port of Entry in Calexico, Calif.  The camera operator relayed the information via radio to a Border Patrol agent who responded to the area.The camera operator informed the Border Patrol agent that one of the suspected undocumented individuals exited the water on the north side of the canal, one was standing on the bank on the south side of the canal, and one was in the water in the center of the canal. Approximately 23 seconds later, the camera operator reported that the individual in the middle of the canal was not advancing and that he was not sure if the individual was struggling. Approximately 15 seconds later, the individual on the north side of the canal fled north as the Border Patrol agent arrived. The Border Patrol agent observed the individual in the middle of the canal, noted that he did not appear to be in distress, so he proceeded to apprehend the migrant who ran north. During this time, the individual on the south bank of the canal returned to Mexico. After the apprehension, and approximately 55 seconds after he arrived in the area, the Border Patrol agent asked the camera operator about the condition of the man in the middle of the canal and inquired if he was still struggling.  The camera operator replied that he was not sure if the individual was struggling and would need to zoom the camera to get a better look.  After doing so, the camera operator relayed that the migrant in the middle of the canal appeared to be struggling to stay afloat.  Within seconds, the Border Patrol agent returned to the canal bank to help the migrant. As the Border Patrol agent arrived, he asked the migrant if he needed help, to which the migrant responded “yes.” Before the Border Patrol agent was able to deploy a rescue device, the migrant sank below the surface of the water. The Border Patrol agent threw a flotation device to the area where the migrant was last seen, but the migrant never resurfaced.  Customs and Border Protection’s Office of Professional Responsibility special agents reviewed radio traffic and video footage of the incident and interviewed the apprehended migrant. The apprehended migrant stated that he did not know the migrant who drowned, that they had only met prior to crossing the border barrier, and that he saw the Border Patrol agent throw a flotation device to the migrant in the water.

Due to the dangerous conditions posed by the canal’s current, recovery efforts were delayed. On the morning of Feb. 2, 2022, Border Patrol Search, Trauma, and Rescue divers located the body of an adult male citizen of Mexico. 

https://www.cbp.gov/newsroom/speeches-and-statements/man-s-body-recovered-all-american-canal-near-calexico-port-entry

210. Jesus Adrian Alvaro
Age: 22
Nationality: U.S. Citizen
Cause of Death: Fatal Car Chase
Incident Date: February 1, 2022
Incident Location: Texas

On Feb. 1, 2022, at approximately 9 p.m. a Border Patrol agent working at a predesignated observation location approximately 35 miles north of McAllen, Texas, spotted a Chevrolet Silverado traveling northbound on U.S. Highway 281. The Border Patrol agent observed people laying in the bed of the truck and the agent radioed the information to other Border Patrol agents working highway operations further north on U.S. Highway 281. The Silverado passed by the Border Patrol agents, who were in two separate marked Border Patrol vehicles near mile marker 750 on Highway 281.  Both Border Patrol agents followed the Silverado and activated their emergency equipment. The driver failed to yield, continuing for approximately three-quarters of a mile before coming to a stop in the median near mile post 748.  Multiple people exited the vehicle and attempted to flee from the area. One of the vehicle’s occupants, later identified as a 22-year-old male United States citizen, was struck by a passing vehicle as he crossed the southbound lanes of Highway 281. Border Patrol agents immediately began CPR and requested Emergency Medical Services, Texas Department of Public Safety, and an air ambulance. Approximately 40 minutes later, Hidalgo County EMS arrived at the scene and took over lifesaving efforts. Despite the efforts of the Border Patrol agents and Hidalgo County EMS, Hidalgo County Justice of the Peace declared him deceased at the scene. 

• US citizen struck and killed by vehicle following failure to yield incident north of McAllen, Texas | US Customs and Border Protection 
• https://myrgv.com/featured/2022/02/02/mission-man-killed-during-overnight-chase/

209. Unknown
Age: 7 years old
Nationality: Venezuelan
Cause of Death: Drowning
Incident Date: January 18 2022
Incident Location: Rio Grande River (Mexican Side)

Border Patrol Agents assigned to the Del Rio Station were notified that a child was lost while attempting to cross the Rio Grande River, Jan. 18. Agents were informed by a Venezuelan woman that her child was swept away by the current. Border Patrol Agents assigned to the Del Rio Station Boat Patrol Unit were deployed to the area where the incident occurred, in an attempt to locate the child. Border Patrol also contacted law enforcement counterparts in Mexico. The body of a child matching the mother’s description was found along the riverbank on the Mexico side of the Rio Grande, by Mexican authorities.  The mother was notified and confirmed it was her 7-year-old daughter, also a Venezuelan national. The mother was taken into custody by Border Patrol agents and processed as per CBP guidelines. https://www.cbp.gov/newsroom/local-media-release/seven-year-old-drowns-rio-grande

208. Unknown
Age: Unknown
Nationality: Mexican
Cause of Death: Unknown
Incident Date: January 12 2022
Incident Location: Otay Mesa, CA

On Jan. 12, 2022, at approximately 1:45 p.m. PST, a Border Patrol remote camera operator spotted nine suspected undocumented noncitizens cross into the United States in an industrial area west of the Otay Mesa Port of Entry.  The camera operator radioed to Border Patrol agents, who responded to the area.  A Border Patrol agent apprehended a 38-year-old citizen of Mexico north of the secondary Border Barrier. The undocumented noncitizen was placed into a marked Border Patrol vehicle and transported to the Port of Entry for processing.  After arriving at the Port of Entry, the undocumented noncitizen became ill and eventually unresponsive.  Border Patrol agents and a Customs and Border Protection Emergency Medical Technician called for Emergency Medical Services, utilized an automated external defibrillator, and performed cardio pulmonary resuscitation on the man.   The San Diego Fire Department arrived at the scene and took over life saving efforts. However, at approximately 3:30 p.m. PST, San Diego County EMS personnel declared the man deceased. 

https://www.cbp.gov/newsroom/speeches-and-statements/mexican-man-becomes-unresponsive-and-dies-otay-mesa-port-entry

207. Unknown
Age: Unknown
Nationality: Unknown
Cause of Death: Drowning
Incident Date: January 7 2022
Incident Location: Eagle Pass, TX

U.S. Border Patrol agents assigned to the Del Rio Sector recovered a drowning victim, Jan. 7. Late Friday evening, agents from the Eagle Pass South Station responded to a call for assistance from Texas National Guard (TNG) soldiers. Agents were informed that two individuals ran into a nearby gravel pit, which was full of water, and one did not resurface. TNG told agents that the two individuals were part of a larger group observed running away from the soldiers. Del Rio Border Patrol agents and the Eagle Pass Fire Department quickly responded to assist with the rescue. One man was located on the edge of the gravel pit in need of medical attention. Emergency Medical Services were contacted, and the man was transported to a local hospital. The second subject never resurfaced, and the Border Patrol Search Trauma and Rescue (BORSTAR) Dive Team was called to assist. The team recovered the body of a male subject from the gravel pit Saturday morning. 

• https://www.cbp.gov/newsroom/local-media-release/border-patrol-divers-recover-deceased-body-gravel-pit

2021

58 deaths

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206. Unknown
Age: Unknown
Nationality: Mexican
Cause of Death: Fatal Car Chase
Incident Date: December 25, 2021
Incident Location: Jamul, CA

On Dec. 25, 2021, at approximately 5:59 p.m., National Guard personnel operating a mobile surveillance platform observed a suspicious vehicle, later confirmed to be a black Honda Accord Sport, drive southbound on Miniwawa Truck Trail near Jamul, Calif., approximately six-and-a-half miles north of the U.S./Mexico border.Approximately ten minutes later, the camera operator observed the vehicle returning northbound on Miniwawa Truck Trail at a high rate of speed and advised Border Patrol agents via radio. Border Patrol agents assigned to the area responded to the location. At approximately 6:02 p.m., a Border Patrol agent driving a marked Border Patrol vehicle, attempted to perform a vehicle stop near the Pio Pico campground by activating his overhead lights.  The driver of the Honda Accord stopped momentarily, then fled and drove through a nearby trailer park within the campground.  Another Border Patrol agent in a marked Border

and rendered aid to the ejected occupants lying on the ground.  A short time later, CalFire Department medical personnel, California Highway Patrol, and Mercy Paramedics arrived on the scene.  One occupant, a citizen of Mexico, suffered head trauma and was later declared deceased on the scene by a medical examiner.EMS transported the driver and one passenger to Scripps Mercy Hospital in San Diego and the other passenger was transported to Sharp Memorial Hospital in San Diego. 

CBP statement on death of man after he was ejected from a vehicle following failure to yield near Jamul, California | US Customs and Border Protection

205. Unknown
Age: Unknown
Nationality: Mexico
Cause of Death: Fatal Car Chase
Incident Date: December 3, 2021
Incident Location: La Gloria, TX

The following statement pertains to a death that occurred on Friday, Dec. 3, 2021, near La Gloria, Texas.  This information is based on a preliminary review by Customs and Border Protection’s Office of Professional Responsibility.

On the morning of Dec. 3, 2021, Border Patrol Agents were traveling eastbound in two separate vehicles on Farm to Market Road 755 near Encino, Texas, approximately 51 miles north of the U.S./Mexico Border. As the Border Patrol agents approached the intersection of FM 755 and U.S. Highway 281, they spotted multiple suspected undocumented migrants exiting a gray Ford F-150 pickup. As they approached, the F-150 left the area traveling westbound on FM 755 at a high rate of speed.  The Border Patrol agents turned around to catch up to the vehicle. Approximately 3.5 miles west of the intersection of FM 755 and Hwy 281, the Border Patrol agents activated their emergency lights and the F-150 failed to yield.

As the Border Patrol agents pursued the F-150, Border Patrol Sector Communications notified the Texas Department of Public Safety of the pursuit.  As the vehicle approached the intersection of FM 755 and FM 1017, the pursuing Border Patrol agents slowed down and a Texas DPS officer, who was accompanied by two Border Patrol agents, deployed a Vehicle Immobilization Device. The F-150 attempted to circumvent the VID, left the roadway, struck solar panels, rolled, and came to rest on its side and facing the opposite direction.  The driver of the F-150 fled from the collision but was apprehended.

An occupant of the F-150, a male citizen of Mexico, was ejected from the vehicle when it rolled over.  A Border Patrol agent Emergency Medical Technician provided aid and performed CPR on the man. Border Patrol agents requested Emergency Medical Services and an air ambulance which could not respond due to weather.  Despite lifesaving efforts, the man succumbed to his injuries and was pronounced deceased at the scene by the Starr County Justice of the Peace.

The driver of the vehicle was booked into Starr County Jail and is being charged with evading arrest resulting in death.

This incident is being investigated by TX DPS and is being reviewed by CBP’s Office of Professional Responsibility and the Starr County Justice of the Peace.  The Department of Homeland Security Homeland Security Investigations, is investigating the smuggling event. The DHS Office of Inspector General was also notified.

• CBP statement on death of Mexican man after he was ejected from a vehicle following failure to yield near La Gloria, Texas

204. Unknown
Age: 4 Years Old
Nationality: Honduras
Cause of Death: Medical
Incident Date: November 21, 2021
Incident Location: La Joya, TX

On Nov. 21, 2021, at approximately 1:53 p.m., a Supervisory Border Patrol Agent encountered a group of twelve migrants approximately one mile south of La Joya, Texas.  The migrants were walking along an unimproved roadway and turned themselves in to the SBPA.  Upon initial contact with the SBPA, one of the female migrants immediately requested medical assistance for her son, a four-year-old male citizen of Honduras.  The woman, also traveling with her five-year-old son, told the SBPA that her four-year-old son was sick and having difficulty breathing. The SBPA, a certified Emergency Medical Technician, assessed the child who was handed to him by the mother.   

The SBPA observed the child did not appear to have a fever, but noticed the boy having difficulty breathing. The SBPA asked the mother how long her son had been sick, and the mother replied he had been sick for a couple of weeks and had a history of renal failure.  Utilizing a stethoscope to listen to the boy’s breathing, the SBPA could hear crackling and wheezing, and noted he could have fluid in his lungs and possibly have pneumonia. 

The SBPA called for assistance to transport the group from the remote area to a nearby park where he could safely conduct a full assessment of the boy’s medical condition. Another Border Patrol agent met with the SBPA and assisted with transporting the group of migrants to the park. Upon arrival at the park, the SBPA conducted a further medical assessment. The boy exhibited signs of respiratory distress and was going in and out of consciousness. At approximately 2:28 p.m., the SBPA requested Emergency Medical Services for the boy. Additionally, the SBPA requested a paramedic-certified Border Patrol agent respond to the scene as they would be authorized to administer medicines to the boy if needed. The SBPA began to administer oxygen to the boy via a mask while awaiting further assistance. The oxygen had an immediate effect and the boy’s condition improved.

Within several minutes of administering the oxygen, the Border Patrol agent-Paramedic arrived to assist.   The Border Patrol agent-Paramedic immediately administered liquid albuterol via a nebulizer to the boy to relax and open the air passages to the lungs to make breathing easier.  Within four to five minutes of receiving the medication, the boy became alert and showed signs of improvement.  The boy began to talk to his mother and asked for food and water. The agents continued to monitor and care for the boy while awaiting EMS arrival.

Approximately twenty minutes after the 911 call, Med Care EMS arrived and took over medical care.  At approximately 3:08 p.m., EMS transported the boy, along with his mother and sibling to the Rio Grande Regional Hospital in McAllen, Texas, arriving at approximately 3:29 p.m..  

At approximately 9:02 p.m., the boy was transferred by EMS to Doctor’s Hospital at Renaissance due to the lack of bed space at Rio Grande Regional Hospital.  At approximately 9:35 p.m., the boy was admitted into the facility and received medical treatment while under hospital watch by Customs and Border Protection.  At approximately 3:49 a.m., on Nov. 22, 2021, the boy succumbed to his ailments and was pronounced deceased by medical staff.

On Nov. 23, 2021, a forensic pathologist performed an autopsy on the child.  The preliminary findings indicate the cause of death was pneumonia and acute respiratory failure and the manner of death was natural.  The Hidalgo County Medical Examiner’s Office and the U.S. Customs and Border Protection.

• CBP Statement on death of 4-year-old migrant in the Rio Grande Valley, Texas

203. Unknown
Age: 17 days old
Nationality: Mexican
Cause of Death: Medical
Incident Date: November 20, 2021
Incident Location: McAllen, TX

On Nov. 20, 2021 at approximately 7:15 p.m., a Border Patrol Agent assigned to the U.S. Border Patrol Station in McAllen, Texas, encountered a group of five migrants near the McAllen-Hidalgo Port of Entry at a location known as the “Store Road Gap”. The migrants turned themselves in to the Border Patrol agent after crossing the Rio Grande River. The Border Patrol agent started the initial field intake process of the migrants which consisted of asking for documents and providing the migrants a bag in which to place their belongings. None of the migrants requested medical attention at the time they approached the Border Patrol agent. Upon completing the intake process for the first five migrants, another group of at least ten migrants turned themselves in to the Border Patrol agent, who then began the intake process for them.

Approximately twenty minutes later, while processing the second group, the Border Patrol agent observed one of the migrants from the first group, a fifteen-year-old female citizen of Honduras, unwrapping her baby from a blanket and attempting to wake the baby. The Border Patrol agent asked the female if anything was wrong, and the female told the Border Patrol agent her baby was sick with a cough. The Border Patrol agent continued with processing the second group when she observed the female was still checking on the baby and was talking to another female from her group who was also checking the baby. The Border Patrol agent once again asked the female what was wrong and if the baby was okay and the female responded she was checking to see if her baby was breathing. The Border Patrol agent approached the female and observed the baby was wrapped in two blankets and was dressed in a onesie and was wearing a beanie.

The Border Patrol agent checked the baby’s cheek and chin which were warm, but the baby did not respond to her touch. The Border Patrol agent observed the baby’s fists were clenched and discoloration of the baby’s fingernails. The female informed the Border Patrol agent her seventeen-day-old son, a citizen of Mexico, was coughing and had not eaten all day. The Border Patrol agent immediately called a Supervisory Border Patrol Agent and requested a Border Patrol Emergency Medical Technician; however, there were no EMTs on duty. The supervisory agent requested that another Border Patrol agent transport the mother and baby to the hospital. At approximately 7:42 p.m., due to the urgency of the situation and to ensure clear communications, another Border Patrol agent called 911 via cell phone and requested Emergency Medical Services for the baby. To ensure the baby received medical treatment as quickly as possible, the Border Patrol agent transported him and his mother in a Border Patrol vehicle approximately four-and-half miles to a convenience store located on Military Highway and 10th Street, in McAllen, Texas, to meet EMS.

At approximately 7:45 PM, the McAllen Fire Department arrived at the convenience store and attempted to resuscitate the baby. At approximately 7:50 p.m., Med Care EMS arrived at the location and joined efforts to resuscitate the baby. Med Care EMS subsequently transported the baby and his mother to the Rio Grande Regional Hospital in McAllen, TX.

At approximately 8:21 p.m., the baby arrived at Rio Grande Regional Hospital where medical personnel continued life saving measures. Approximately nineteen minutes after arriving at the hospital, the baby was declared deceased by medical personnel.

The Hidalgo County Justice of the Peace and the U.S. Customs and Border Protection Office of Professional Responsibility are reviewing the incident. The Department of Homeland Security Office of Inspector General was also notified of the incident.

• CBP Statement on Infant Death in Rio Grande Valley, Texas

202. Unknown
Age: 23 weeks along
Nationality: Unknown
Cause of Death: Medical/Stillborn baby
Incident Date: November 18, 2021
Incident Location: McAllen, TX

On November 18, 2021, a Border Patrol agent assigned to the Weslaco, Texas, Border Patrol station apprehended two migrants, a husband and wife from Venezuela, near Progreso Lakes, Texas. At approximately 7:14 p.m., the two migrants were transported to the Hidalgo Port of Entry for initial processing. Approximately an hour and a half later, the migrants were transported to the U.S. Border Patrol Centralized Processing Center in McAllen, Texas, for further processing and detention. The woman advised U.S. Border Patrol at both locations she was six months pregnant.

On Nov. 19, 2021, at approximately 5:40 a.m., Customs and Border Protection-contracted medical personnel conducted an initial medical screening of the woman. The woman did not complain about abdominal pain during her initial screening. At approximately 8:40 a.m., a Customs and Border Protection-contracted Physician’s Assistant (PA) conducted another medical screening of the woman after she requested medication for high blood pressure. The PA noticed the woman’s blood pressure was slightly elevated and the woman told the PA she was experiencing a light discharge. The PA felt the woman’s stomach and observed there was no movement from the baby. The woman told the PA she had not felt her baby move for several days. The PA requested the woman be taken to the hospital for further evaluation.

At approximately 9:15 a.m., the woman was transported to the South Texas Health Systems Emergency Room where she was evaluated by medical personnel. While at South Texas Health Systems, medical personnel were unable to find the baby’s heartbeat and recommended the woman be transported to the McAllen Medical Center. At approximately 1:07 p.m., the woman was admitted into the McAllen Medical Center, and medical personnel induced labor. At approximately 2:37 p.m., the woman delivered a child with no heartbeat and medical personnel declared the child deceased. Medical personnel estimated the child was approximately 23 weeks along.

The U.S. Customs and Border Protection Office of Professional Responsibility is reviewing this incident. The Department of Homeland Security Office of Inspector General was also notified of the incident.

• Migrant Gives Birth to Stillborn in Rio Grande Valley, Texas

201. Unknown
Age: Unknown
Nationality: Unknown
Cause of Death: Fatal Car Crash
Incident Date: November 12, 2021
Incident Location: Sonoita, AZ

The following statement pertains to a death that occurred in Sonoita, Ariz., on Friday, Nov. 12, 2021.  This information is based on a preliminary review and may be corrected or updated in the future. 

On Nov. 12, 2021, an Infiniti sedan, followed by a Toyota Camry, arrived at a U.S. Border Patrol checkpoint on State Route 83, near Sonoita, Ariz.  A Border Patrol Agent working the primary inspection area noticed people laying down in the backseat area of the Infiniti and referred the vehicle to the secondary inspection area.  The Infiniti accelerated quickly and fled the checkpoint. A Border Patrol Agent working in the secondary inspection area attempted to activate a remote Vehicle Immobilization Device to disable the vehicle’s tires.  However, the remote VID failed to deploy, and the Infiniti left the checkpoint area at a high rate of speed.

As the Infiniti fled the area, the Toyota backed away from the primary inspection area, drove over the orange traffic cones into the southbound lane, and continued north circumventing the checkpoint.  The Border Patrol Agent in the primary inspection area deployed a VID but was unable to determine if the VID affected the Toyota’s tires. The Toyota also continued north on SR 83 at a high rate of speed. 

The Border Patrol Agent in the secondary inspection area got in his marked Border Patrol vehicle and drove north on SR 83.  Approximately four miles north of the checkpoint, on a curve in the road, the Border Patrol agent found the Toyota Camry resting on its roof in the northbound lane of SR 83 perpendicular to the path of travel, facing east. The Border Patrol agent radioed for emergency medical personnel. 

The Sonoita-Elgin Fire Department arrived at the scene and declared a male citizen of Mexico, and a second male, whose identity has not yet been confirmed, deceased. A third occupant of the vehicle, a female citizen of Mexico, was transported via air ambulance to the Banner University Medical Center, in Tucson, Ariz.  The female migrant is in stable condition. The Infiniti was not located.

This incident is under investigation by the Arizona Department of Public Safety and under review by the Pima County Medical Examiner and Customs and Border Protection’s Office of Professional Responsibility.  The Department of Homeland Security Office of Inspector General was also notified.

• Two Deceased Males and a Female Migrant in Stable Condition Found After Fleeing from Immigration Checkpoint

200. Unknown
Age: Unknown
Nationality: Mexican
Cause of Death: Fatal Car Chase
Incident Date: November 12 2021
Incident Location: Sonoita, AZ

The following statement pertains to a death that occurred in Sonoita, Ariz., on Friday, Nov. 12, 2021.  This information is based on a preliminary review and may be corrected or updated in the future. 

On Nov. 12, 2021, an Infiniti sedan, followed by a Toyota Camry, arrived at a U.S. Border Patrol checkpoint on State Route 83, near Sonoita, Ariz.  A Border Patrol Agent working the primary inspection area noticed people laying down in the backseat area of the Infiniti and referred the vehicle to the secondary inspection area.  The Infiniti accelerated quickly and fled the checkpoint. A Border Patrol Agent working in the secondary inspection area attempted to activate a remote Vehicle Immobilization Device to disable the vehicle’s tires.  However, the remote VID failed to deploy, and the Infiniti left the checkpoint area at a high rate of speed.

As the Infiniti fled the area, the Toyota backed away from the primary inspection area, drove over the orange traffic cones into the southbound lane, and continued north circumventing the checkpoint.  The Border Patrol Agent in the primary inspection area deployed a VID but was unable to determine if the VID affected the Toyota’s tires. The Toyota also continued north on SR 83 at a high rate of speed. 

The Border Patrol Agent in the secondary inspection area got in his marked Border Patrol vehicle and drove north on SR 83.  Approximately four miles north of the checkpoint, on a curve in the road, the Border Patrol agent found the Toyota Camry resting on its roof in the northbound lane of SR 83 perpendicular to the path of travel, facing east. The Border Patrol agent radioed for emergency medical personnel. 

The Sonoita-Elgin Fire Department arrived at the scene and declared a male citizen of Mexico, and a second male, whose identity has not yet been confirmed, deceased. A third occupant of the vehicle, a female citizen of Mexico, was transported via air ambulance to the Banner University Medical Center, in Tucson, Ariz.  The female migrant is in stable condition. The Infiniti was not located.

This incident is under investigation by the Arizona Department of Public Safety and under review by the Pima County Medical Examiner and Customs and Border Protection’s Office of Professional Responsibility.  The Department of Homeland Security Office of Inspector General was also notified.

• Two Deceased Males and a Female Migrant in Stable Condition Found After Fleeing from Immigration Checkpoint

199. Unknown
Age: Unknown
Nationality: Unknown
Cause of Death: Drowning
Incident Date: October 29, 2021
Incident Location: San Diego, CA

One person is deceased following an attempt by a large group of people to illegally enter the U.S. by swimming around the border barrier and make their way to the beach at Border Field State Park in San Diego. 

On October 29, at approximately 11:38 p.m., U.S. Border Patrol agents received a notification of a group of possibly 70 people attempting to illegally swim across the international boundary from Tijuana into the U.S. at Border Field State Park. 

An agent in the area reported several individuals in the water, and one responding agent came across a single, unresponsive woman later believed to be from the same group of swimmers.  The Border Patrol agent immediately performed CPR on the woman while requesting the response of emergency medical services (EMS) including San Diego Fire-Rescue Department (SDFD) firefighters and lifeguards. EMS arrived on scene and continued medical aid. At approximately 12:30 a.m., the unresponsive woman was pronounced deceased by EMS. The San Diego Medical Examiner arrived on scene and took custody.

U.S. Border Patrol, along with Air and Marine Operations, U.S. Coast Guard, SDFD, and California State Parks continued to search the area in efforts to locate any outstanding persons who may have been in distress. Border Patrol agents took a total of 36 adult Mexican nationals into custody who had swam around the border barrier, 25 men and 11 women, including 13 people the U.S. Coast Guard rescued from the water. All 36 persons were taken into custody and transported to a nearby Border Patrol station for processing.

“This is yet another example of the ruthless tactics smuggling organizations use to bolster their power and profits,” said San Diego Sector’s Chief Patrol Agent Aaron Heitke. “We will work tirelessly to pursue and bring to justice those responsible for this tragedy.” 

All information provided is according to initial reports from the scene.  Following standard procedure, U.S. Customs and Border Protection’s Office of Professional Responsibility responded to the scene to investigate the incident.

• One Fatality Following Large Group of Swimmers Entering U.S. Illegally at San Diego Border Beach

198. Unknown 
Age: Unknown
Nationality: Honduran
Cause of Death: Fatal Chase
Incident Date: October 28 2021
Incident Location: Eagle Pass, TX

A U.S. Border Patrol camera operator observed three suspected migrants walking through a flat field approximately two and a half miles northeast of the Eagle Pass, Texas, Port of Entry on Oct. 28, 2021. Five Border Patrol Agents assigned to the Eagle Pass Station responded to the area in an attempt to locate the migrants.  At approximately 4:58 a.m. as the Border Patrol agents approached the migrants and turned on their flashlights, the migrants ran from the field toward some nearby thick brush attempting to evade apprehension.  One migrant was apprehended, but the other two migrants ran and fell off a steep cliff that was concealed by the thick brush. Border Patrol agents immediately requested emergency medical services and made their way to the bottom of the cliff.  After descending approximately 50 feet, Border Patrol agents located the two migrants who were both critically injured.  Border Patrol Agents rendered aid to the migrants until the Eagle Pass Fire Department EMS arrived.

The Air Evac Lifeteam arrived on scene and airlifted one migrant to the University Hospital in San Antonio.  EMS medical personnel declared the other migrant, a citizen of Honduras, deceased on the scene.

The Maverick County Sheriff’s Office, the Webb County Medical Examiner’s Office, and the U.S. Customs and Border Protection Office of Professional Responsibility are reviewing this incident.  The Department of Homeland Security Office of Inspector General was also notified of the incident.

• One migrant dies; a second critically injured after fall from cliff in Eagle Pass, TX

197. Edward Colin Colteaux 
Age: 38 
Nationality: Honduran
Cause of Death: Fatal Shooting
Incident Date: October 11, 2021
Incident Location: Tucson, AZ

TUCSON, Ariz. (AP) — The death of a man who allegedly was shot by an off-duty U.S. Border Patrol agent in Tucson last weekend is being investigated by city police.

• Tucson police probe shooting by off-duty border patrol agent.

196. Unknown
Age: Unknown 
Nationality: Honduran
Cause of Death: Medical
Incident Date: October 6, 2021
Incident Location: Kingsville, TX

On Oct. 6, 2021, at approximately 11:24 p.m., personnel at the U.S. Border Patrol station in Kingsville, TX, were contacted by an anonymous caller who reported an individual lying in a field who may have been bitten by a spider. The caller provided GPS coordinates for the individual’s location. Border Patrol Agents responded to the area in search of the individual. On Oct. 7, 2021, at approximately 12:50 a.m., Border Patrol Agents located an unresponsive citizen of Honduras. Border Patrol Agents immediately requested Emergency Medical Technicians and Emergency Medical Services.

• Honduran national found in medical distress

195. Unknown
Age: Unknown
Nationality: U.S. LPR
Cause of Death: Medical
Incident Date: September 27, 2021
Incident Location: Washington D.C.

A Lawful Permanent Resident of the United States and citizen of Bosnia arrived with his wife at the Washington-Dulles Airport Port of Entry from Vienna, Austria, on September 27. The couple was admitted into the U.S. and then selected for a random agriculture inspection. The man collapsed onto the floor during the inspection and was unresponsive.  A Customs and Border Protection officer and certified EMT was dispatched to administer CPR and used an Automated External Defibrillator until Metropolitan Washington Airport Authority paramedics arrived and continued lifesaving efforts. MWAA transported the man to a local hospital in Reston, Virginia, where he was declared deceased.

Citizen of Bosnia collapses at Washington-Dulles Airport | US Customs and Border Protection

194. Unknown
Age: Two Months
Nationality: Honduran
Cause of Death: Medical
Incident Date: September 20, 2021
Incident Location: Rio Grande City, TX

Border Patrol Agents assigned to the U.S. Border Patrol Station in Rio Grande City, Texas, encountered a large group of migrants approximately nine and one quarter miles southeast of the Rio Grande City Port of Entry at approximately 2:30 a.m. on September 20, 2021. The migrants turned themselves in to the agents after crossing the Rio Grande River. The Border Patrol Agents escorted the group to a nearby unimproved roadway to field process the group.

• Infant passes away after crossing the border with mother

193. Unknown
Age: Unknown
Nationality: Mexican
Cause of Death: Medical
Incident Date: September 20, 2021
Incident Location: Aguilares, TX

Personnel at the U.S. Border Patrol Laredo South Station were notified by Laredo Sector Communications of a 911 call placed by an undocumented migrant at about 1:00 p.m. on September 20, 2021. The undocumented migrant, a citizen of Mexico, indicated he was lost and in medical distress. During a subsequent call from the man, Border Patrol Agents were able to obtain coordinates that placed him in a remote area, approximately 10 miles southwest of Aguilares, Texas. Border Patrol Agents responded to the area and began to search for the man.

• Migrant dies after being found in medical distress

192. Unknown
Age: Unknown
Nationality: Brazilian
Cause of Death: Fatal Car Crash
Incident Date: September 20, 2021
Incident Location: Deming, NM

A Border Patrol Agent assigned to the U.S. Border Patrol Tactical Checkpoint in Deming, N.M., reported a black Acura SUV had circumvented the checkpoint and was travelling northbound on Highway 11 at approximately 12:36 p.m. on September 18, 2021. A Border Patrol Agent assigned to the checkpoint then travelled northbound in a Border Patrol vehicle to catch up to the SUV while another Border Patrol Agent in a different Border Patrol vehicle also attempted to locate the vehicle. Border Patrol Agents located the Acura approximately six miles north of the checkpoint and attempted to conduct a vehicle stop near Mile Marker 19. The vehicle did not stop and continued for approximately a half mile until the driver lost control and crashed. Multiple occupants were ejected from the vehicle, which caught on fire. Border Patrol Agents immediately requested emergency medical services, removed the four remaining occupants from the burning vehicle and rendered aid.

UPDATE: A second occupant of the Acura, a citizen of Brazil, succumbed to his injuries on September 27, 2021. The man was declared deceased by hospital personnel in El Paso, TX., where he had been treated since September 18, 2021.

• Multiple migrants airlifted to hospital, one deceased

191. Unknown
Age: Unknown
Nationality: Ecuadorian
Cause of Death: Fatal Car Crash
Incident Date: September 18, 2021
Incident Location: Deming, NM

A Border Patrol Agent assigned to the U.S. Border Patrol Tactical Checkpoint in Deming, N.M., reported a black Acura SUV had circumvented the checkpoint and was travelling northbound on Highway 11 at approximately 12:36 p.m. on September 18, 2021. A Border Patrol Agent assigned to the checkpoint then travelled northbound in a Border Patrol vehicle to catch up to the SUV while another Border Patrol Agent in a different Border Patrol vehicle also attempted to locate the vehicle. Border Patrol Agents located the Acura approximately six miles north of the checkpoint and attempted to conduct a vehicle stop near Mile Marker 19. The vehicle did not stop and continued for approximately a half mile until the driver lost control and crashed. Multiple occupants were ejected from the vehicle, which caught on fire. Border Patrol Agents immediately requested emergency medical services, removed the four remaining occupants from the burning vehicle and rendered aid.

UPDATE: A second occupant of the Acura, a citizen of Brazil, succumbed to his injuries on September 27, 2021. The man was declared deceased by hospital personnel in El Paso, TX., where he had been treated since September 18, 2021.

• Multiple migrants airlifted to hospital, one deceased

190. Unknown
Age: Unknown
Nationality: Mexican
Cause of Death: Medical
Incident Date: September 9, 2021
Incident Location: Columbus, NM

189. Unknown
Age: Unknown
Nationality: Mexican
Cause of Death: Fatal Chase
Incident Date: September 3, 2021
Incident Location: Laredo, TX

• Female migrant dies from head injuries

188. Unknown
Age: Unknown
Nationality: Mexican
Cause of Death: Fatal Car Accident
Incident Date: September 2, 2021
Incident Location: Van Horn, TX

 

187. Unknown
Age: Unknown
Nationality: Unknown
Cause of Death: Medical
Incident Date: August 27, 2021
Incident Location: Sullivan City, TX

• Unidentified man dies after he is found unresponsive near Sullivan City, TX

186. Unknown
Age: Unknown
Nationality: Mexican
Cause of Death: Medical
Incident Date: August 25, 2021
Incident Location: Falfurrias, TX

• Unresponsive Mexican national pronounced deceased following pursuit near Falfurrias, TX

185. Unknown
Age: Unknown
Nationality: Nicaraguan
Cause of Death: Medical
Incident Date: August 7, 2021
Incident Location: Yuma, AZ

• Nicaraguan Man Dies After Suffering Heat Related Illness

184. Unknown
Age: Unknown
Nationality: Unknown
Cause of Death: Fatal Car Chase
Incident Date: August 7, 2021
Incident Location: Marana, AZ

183. Unknown
Age: Unknown
Nationality: Unknown
Cause of Death: Fatal Car Chase
Incident Date: August 7, 2021
Incident Location: Marana, AZ

182. Unknown
Age: Unknown
Nationality: Unknown
Cause of Death: Fatal Car Chase
Incident Date: August 7, 2021
Incident Location: Marana, AZ

181. Unknown
Age: Unknown
Nationality: El Salvador 
Cause of Death: Medical
Incident Date: August 05, 2021
Incident Location: Rio Grande, TX

• CBP Press Statement: El Salvadorian migrant found in medical distress

180. Unknown
Age: Unknown
Nationality: U.S. Citizen
Cause of Death: Fatal Car Chase
Incident Date: August 03, 2021
Incident Location: Las Cruces, NM

179. Unknown
Age: Unknown
Nationality: Ecuadorian
Cause of Death: Fatal Car Chase
Incident Date: August 03, 2021
Incident Location: Las Cruces, NM

178. Unknown
Age: Unknown
Nationality: Mexican
Cause of Death: Unknown
Incident Date: August 02, 2021
Incident Location: Yuma, AZ

• CBP Press Statement

177. Unknown
Age: Unknown
Nationality: El Salvador
Cause of Death: Unknown
Incident Date: August 02, 2021
Incident Location: Eagle Pass, TX

• CBP statement: Death in Custody at Eagle Pass, TX

176. Unknown
Age: Unknown
Nationality: Unknown
Cause of Death: Fatal Car Accident
Incident Date: July 31, 2021
Incident Location: Sells, AZ

175. Unknown
Age: Unknown
Nationality: Honduran
Cause of Death: Medical
Incident Date: July 24, 2021
Incident Location: Harlingen, TX

174. Unknown
Age: Unknown
Nationality: Mexican
Cause of Death: Medical
Incident Date: June 30, 2021
Incident Location: Vamori, AZ

• CBP press release

173. Unknown
Age: Unknown
Nationality: Mexican
Cause of Death: Medical
Incident Date: June 26, 2021
Incident Location: Boulevard, CA

• Undocumented migrant found unresponsive in vehicle near Boulevard, CA

172. Unknown
Age: Unknown
Nationality: Mexican
Cause of Death: Medical emergency
Incident Date: June 24, 2021
Incident Location: Tucson, AZ

• Mexican man dies from heat related illness near Palominas, AZ

171. Unknown
Age: Unknown
Nationality: Unknown
Cause of Death: Car chase (Vehicle Collision) 
Incident Date: June 25, 2021
Incident Location: Laredo, TX

• June 23 Vehicle Accident in Laredo, TX

170. Unknown
Age: Unknown
Nationality: Unknown
Cause of Death: Car chase (Vehicle collision) 
Incident Date: June 23, 2021
Incident Location: Laredo, TX

• June 23 Vehicle Accident in Laredo, TX

 

169. Unknown
Age: Unknown
Nationality: Unknown
Cause of Death: Car chase (Vehicle collision) 
Incident Date: June 23, 2021
Incident Location: Laredo, TX

• June 23 Vehicle Accident in Laredo, TX

 

168. Unknown
Age: Unknown
Nationality: Guatemala
Cause of Death: Drowning
Incident Date: June 23, 2021
Incident Location: Eagle Pass, TX

• Two Guatemala citizens drown near Eagle Pass after being chased by Border Patrol, officials say

167. Unknown
Age: Unknown
Nationality: Guatemala
Cause of Death: Drowning
Incident Date: June 23, 2021
Incident Location: Eagle Pass, TX

• Two Guatemala citizens drown near Eagle Pass after being chased by Border Patrol, officials say

166. Unknown
Age: Unknown
Nationality: Mexico
Cause of Death: Car chase (Vehicle collision) 
Incident Date: June 19, 2021
Incident Location: ≈

• Failure to Yield Results in Death

165. Unknown
Age: Unknown
Nationality: Ecuadorian
Cause of Death: Fatal Car Chase
Incident Date: June 10, 2021
Incident Location: Columbus, NM

U.S. Border Patrol Station attempted to stop two vehicles suspected of smuggling undocumented migrants, approximately 21 miles west of Columbus, NM.  The two vehicles failed to yield to the lights and sirens of the BPAs and traveled approximately 34 miles on New Mexico state roads south of Interstate 10 with BPAs in pursuit.  At that point, four undocumented migrants jumped from one of the moving vehicles on New Mexico State Road 146.  While some BPAs stopped to render assistance, others continued to pursue the two vehicles which eventually stopped.  Both drivers and their passengers were taken into custody by BPAs. One of the four undocumented migrants who jumped from the moving vehicle, a female citizen of Ecuador, suffered head injuries and was eventually transferred to University Medical Center in El Paso, TX, where she was declared deceased by medical personnel on June 13, 2021.

https://www.cbp.gov/newsroom/speeches-and-statements/us-border-patrol-failure-yield-incident

 

164. Unknown
Age: Unknown
Nationality: Mexican
Cause of Death: Fatal Fall
Incident Date: June 7, 2021
Incident Location: Arvica, AZ

U.S. Border Patrol Agents (BPAs) responded to the area. A couple hours later, one of the BPAs returned to his vehicle and the other BPA continued to search for the group.  As the BPA was walking down the side of a hill with multiple descending rockfaces separated by steep terrain, he encountered and detained one migrant, while other migrants fled the area.  The BPA determined two of the migrants fell off a nearby rockface. The BPA made his way to the bottom of the rockface, approximately 40 feet below, and located the two migrants. One of the migrants suffered multiple injuries and the second migrant was unfortunately declared dead on the scene. A BPA Emergency Medical Technician was inserted by helicopter to render aid to the injured migrant. The injured migrant was eventually litter carried to a life flight and transported to a local hospital where she was treated and released a few days later.The deceased migrant was a female citizen of Mexico.

CBP Statement: Suspected migrant found deceased after falling off rockface | US Customs and Border Protection

 

163. Unknown
Age: Unknown
Nationality: Mexican
Cause of Death: Medical
Incident Date: June 6, 2021
Incident Location: Texas

After Border Patrol Agents (BPAs) responded to the area, a passerby told them a person was hiding behind a nearby shed. The BPAs approached the shed and discovered a male Mexican Citizen unresponsive and exhibiting labored breathing. BPAs rendered assistance and notified Brownsville Emergency Medical Services (EMS).  Brownsville EMS transported the man to the Valley Regional Medical Center (VRMC).VRMC personnel treated the man for heat related illness while under hospital watch.  On June 10, 2021, he succumbed to his ailments and was pronounced deceased by hospital staff.

Death in Custody in the RGV | US Customs and Border Protection

162. Unknown
Age: 19
Nationality: U.S. Citizen
Cause of Death: Alleged suicide (Other)
Incident Date: June 1, 2021
Incident Location: Sierra Blanca, TX

A person was killed by Border Patrol after failing to yield to agents.

According to a CBP statement:

As a HCSO Deputy Sheriff and BPAs approached the vehicle, they heard a gunshot. After approximately one hour, HCSO Deputies, BPAs and TX Department of Public Safety State Troopers approached the vehicle and discovered the driver with a self-inflicted gunshot wound. The Hudspeth County, TX, Justice of the Peace later pronounced the driver, a nineteen year old U.S. Citizen, deceased.

• Failure to Yield Results in Death near Sierra Blanca, TX

161. Unknown
Age: Unknown
Nationality: Mexican
Cause of Death: Bee attack (Medical)
Incident Date: June 1, 2021
Incident Location: San Antonio, TX

On May 25, Border Patrol agents near Carrizo Springs, Texas, responded to a 911 call from an individual who stated that she and another individual had been attacked by bees. The agents located the two individuals, one of whom, a male Mexican citizen, was unresponsive. The man was transported to the Dimmit County Medical Center, and subsequently to the San Antonio Methodist Hospital. On May 26, the man was pronounced deceased by hospital staff.

160. Silvestre Vargas Estrada
Age: 26
Nationality: Unknown
Cause of Death: Fatal shooting (Use of force)
Incident Date: May 14, 2021
Incident Location: Campo, CA

Border Patrol agents shot and killed a man who was a San Diego resident in a parking lot after following his vehicle in a high-speed chase.

• Border Patrol agents involved in deadly Campo shooting
• Authorities ID San Diego man shot, killed by Border Patrol agents

159. Unknown
Age: Unknown
Nationality: Honduran
Cause of Death: Car accident (Vehicle collision) 
Incident Date: April 29, 2021
Incident Location: Kingsville, TX

A Honduran man who was hidden by grass was hit by a Border Patrol vehicle. He was pronounced dead at the scene.

• Honduran migrant is struck and killed by US Border Patrol vehicle while hiding in tall grass after crossing from Mexico into Texas
• Honduran National Dies of Vehicle Incident Near Kingsville, Texas*

158. Humberto Torres Iracheta
Age: 71
Nationality: Unknown
Cause of Death: Car accident (Vehicle collision)
Incident Date: April 24, 2021
Incident Location: Hidalgo, TX

Humberto Torres Iracheta was riding his bicycle at 5 am, and was struck by Border Agent Francisco Javier Vallejo in his pickup truck. Vallejo then fled the scene.

• Border Patrol agent fled deadly collision with bicyclist; later reported the death

157. Unknown
Age: Unknown
Nationality: Honduran
Cause of Death: Fatal Call Accident
Incident Date: April 15, 2021
Incident Location: San Manuel, TX

A Border Patrol Agent initiated a traffic stop on Highway 281. After approximately 30 seconds, the vehicle yielded, and several occupants reportedly fled.  The agent reportedly approached the vehicle and detained the driver, who was a juvenile United States Citizen.  While the agent was detaining the driver, one of the fleeing occupants was crossing the highway and was struck and killed by a civilian vehicle.

Fleeing Suspect Struck and Killed by Vehicle near San Manuel, Texas | US Customs and Border Protection

 

156. Unknown
Age: Unknown
Nationality: Honduran
Cause of Death: Medical 
Incident Date: April 15, 2021
Incident Location: Hidalgo, TX

Border Patrol Agents were notified by a member of a migrant group that a female was in medical distress near the Rio Grande in Hidalgo, Texas. Two agents immediately responded to the area, just west of the Hidalgo Port of Entry, and located an adult female who was incoherent and in medical distress. The female was traveling with her adult daughter and two juvenile children. Border Patrol Agents summoned Emergency Medical Services to better assess the subject. Due to the remoteness of the location where she was found and the need for prompt medical attention, agents transported her to a nearby location where they were met by an ambulance that transported the female to McAllen Medical Center.On April 16, 2021, at approximately 4:30 p.m., medical personnel advised Border Patrol agents that she had passed away. 

In Custody Death of Female Honduran in Rio Grande Valley, Texas | US Customs and Border Protection

 

155. Unknown
Age: 29
Nationality: Unknown
Cause of Death: Medical distress (Medical)
Incident Date: April 15, 2021
Incident Location: Hebbronville, TX

The initial investigation revealed Border Patrol Agents responded to the area, located the vehicle, and initiated a traffic stop. When the vehicle stopped, agents witnessed several occupants flee while one occupant remained inside. Border Patrol agents gave commands to the man to exit the vehicle but he did not respond.  The Texas Department of Public Safety arrived and provided assistance to the agents.  When the agents approached the Toyota, they found a man in medical distress. A Border Patrol Emergency Medical Technician provided medical care and notified Duval County EMS which transported the man to the Christus Spohn Hospital in Alice, TX, where he was pronounced dead. No other occupants from the vehicle were apprehended.The identity and nationality of the deceased male has not yet been determined. 

CBP Statement on Death in Custody near Hebbronville, TX | US Customs and Border Protection

154. Unknown
Age: Unknown
Nationality: Mexican
Cause of Death: Fatal Car Chase
Incident Date: April 11, 2021
Incident Location: Hebbronville, TX

On April 11, 2021, a civilian notified Border Patrol Agents (BPAs) assigned to Hebbronville, TX, of a vehicle suspected of being involved in human smuggling activities.  BPAs subsequently located the vehicle which was reportedly driving erratically and violating traffic laws in an apparent attempt to leave the area as quickly as possible.  The driver slowed down long enough for several occupants to exit the vehicle and run into the brush.  BPAs found a male Mexican Citizen in the street at that location and observed he was suffering from a head injury and contacted emergency medical services. He was transported by helicopter to a hospital in San Antonio, TX, where he remained until April 25, 2021, when he succumbed to his injuries. 

Male Mexican Citizen Found Suffering from Head Injury | US Customs and Border Protection

 

153. Unknown
Age: 24
Nationality: Mexican
Cause of Death: Medical
Incident Date: April 3, 2021
Incident Location: Arizona

YCSO deputies and Border Patrol Agents (BPAs), including members of the Border Patrol’s Search and Rescue team as well as a BPA aboard an Arizona National Guard helicopter, responded to the area.  Personnel aboard the helicopter located the individuals and guided in BPAs on the ground.  When the BPAs reached the area, they reportedly discovered a 24-year-old female Mexican Citizen, who was already deceased.  After the arrival of YCSO, the female was formally pronounced deceased.The female was reportedly located in the same area as her cousin and one other male.  The two survivors told investigators that she became ill while crossing the desert and they were abandoned by the smuggler who was guiding them.

CBP Statement on Death in Arizona, Not in Custody | US Customs and Border Protection

152. Unknown
Age: 29
Nationality: Guatemalan
Cause of Death: Unknown (Medical)
Incident Date: March 28, 2021
Incident Location: Tucson, AZ

The 29-year-old man was picked up by Casa Grande Border Patrol agents on March 25, and, according to Border Patrol, showed “signs of medical distress” while at the Tucson Coordination Center. He was pronounced dead two days later.

• Man dies in hospital while in U.S. Customs and Border Protection custody in Tucson
• Man Dies In Border Patrol Custody In Tucson

 

151. Unknown
Age: Infant
Nationality: U.S. Citizen
Cause of Death: Medical
Incident Date: March 10, 2021
Incident Location: Hidalgo, TX

Border Patrol agents working near Hidalgo, Texas, found a pregnant woman in need of medical attention near the Rio Grande. Agents immediately requested Emergency Medical Services (EMS). EMS arrived on scene and transported the migrant to a local hospital for care.Today, hospital personnel advised Border Patrol that the patient gave birth prematurely and that unfortunately the newborn passed away due to complications.

RGV Statement on Hospitalized Migrant Who Gave Birth Prematurely; Infant Passed from Complications | US Customs and Border Protection

 

150. Unknown
Age: Unknown
Nationality: U.S. Citizen
Cause of Death: Medical
Incident Date: March 10, 2021
Incident Location: Eagle Pass, TX

On March 10, 2021, an adult male in United States Border Patrol custody in Eagle Pass, TX, began to exhibit signs of medical distress. Agents called for Emergency Medical Services and rendered aid. Shortly after, the man passed away. The event is being investigated by the Eagle Pass, Texas Police Department and the U.S. Customs and Border Protection Office of Professional Responsibility.

CBP Statement on Death in Custody at Eagle Pass, TX | US Customs and Border Protection

149. Diosmani Ramos
Age: 23
Nationality: Cuban
Cause of Death:  Fatal shooting (Use of force)
Incident Date: January 29, 2021
Incident Location: Hidalgo, TX

Diosmani Ramos was shot by a Border Patrol agent sometime around 7:38 am, about a mile away from the Hidalgo port of entry. Diosmani was holding a stone, and the Border Patrol agent shot him in the chest when he refused to drop it. Diosmani was taken to a local hospital where he was pronounced dead at 9 am.

• US Border Patrol Agent Fatally Shoots Man Crossing Border Into Texas
• US Border Patrol Agent Fatally Shoots Man Crossing Border
• Man killed after threatening agent with rock, source says
• "Fue un asesinato": pareja del joven cubano baleado en la frontera por un agente de la patrulla fronteriza de EEUU

 

 

2020

35 deaths

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148. Unknown
Age: 23
Nationality: Guatemalan
Cause of Death: Fatal Car Accident
Incident Date: December 27, 2020
Incident Location: Laredo, TX

On Dec. 27, a 23-year-old female Guatemalan citizen, one of the two individuals struck by the civilian vehicle on Dec. 17, has been removed from life support and has passed away. The incident remains under investigation by Laredo Police Department.

Statement from US Customs and Border Protection

 

147. Unknown
Age: 27
Nationality: Unknown
Cause of Death: Medical
Incident Date: December 22, 2020
Incident Location: San Ysidro, CA

A 27-year-old male, driving a grey sedan traveling northbound from Mexico at a high rate of speed, collided with a metal arm gate in a closed vehicle lane. There were no other injuries reported on the U.S. side. California Highway Patrol is investigating the incident

Incident at San Ysidro Port of Entry Results in Fatality | US Customs and Border Protection

146. Benjamin Marley Manley
Age: 36
Nationality: American
Cause of Death: Fatal shooting (Use of force)
Incident Date: December 16, 2020
Incident Location: Truth and Consequences, NM

A man was killed during a car chase in which he allegedly shot at Border Patrol agents, who returned fire. While initially CBP reported that the man died of a self-inflicted gunshot wound, later reports indicate that it is unclear whether the man died as a result of the exchange of fire, or from a self-inflicted wound. 

• Man who died after shootout with NM border agents was wanted for attempted murder in IowaMan dies after being struck by Calexico Border Patrol vehicle
• Fugitive wanted for attempted murder in Council Bluffs dies after shootout with U.S. Border Patrol

145. Unknown
Age: Unknown
Nationality: Unknown
Cause of Death: Fatal car accident 
Incident Date: December 15, 2020
Incident Location: Sanderson, TX

While agents were attempting to apprehend members of the group, they reportedly heard the sound of a tractor trailer braking on nearby Texas Highway 90.  Agents responded to that location and discovered an unidentified individual had been struck and killed by a civilian vehicle.

Incident Statement Regarding Fatality on Hwy 90 | US Customs and Border Protection

144. Unknown
Age: Unknown
Nationality: Unknown
Cause of Death: Car crash (Vehicle collision) 
Incident Date: November 6, 2020
Incident Location: Calexico, CA

A man was killed after being run over by a Border Patrol vehicle. Officials said the Border Patrol agent was responding to a report of an unauthorized entry into the US from Mexico, and he was unable to avoid driving over the man, who was lying in the road. The man was transported to a nearby hospital and then airlifted to a trauma center in Palm Springs, where he died.

• Man dies after being struck by Calexico Border Patrol vehicle

143. Unknown
Age: Unknown
Nationality: Unknown
Cause of Death: Fatal car accident
Incident Date: November 1, 2020
Incident Location: Texas

Shortly before 9 p.m. on Sunday, Nov. 1, 2020 a vehicle failed to stop for secondary inspection at the Interstate 35 U.S. Border Patrol checkpoint. The driver bailed out of the vehicle, ran across the median and was struck by a southbound vehicle and is deceased.

Initial statement regarding fatality north of Interstate 35 US Border Patrol checkpoint | US Customs and Border Protection

142. David Angel Villalobos-Baldovinos
Age: 30
Nationality: Mexican
Cause of Death: Fatal shooting (Use of force)
Incident Date: October 23, 2020
Incident Location: San Ysidro, CA

David, a long-time California resident, was fatally shot by a Border Patrol agent when attempting to enter the U.S.

• One Dead in Shooting Involving Border Patrol Near Las Americas Premium Outlets
• Family of Man Killed By Border Patrol Agent Says Non-Lethal Force Could've Saved His Life
• Authorities ID Border Patrol agent who shot, killed man in San Ysidro

141. Unknown
Age: Unknown
Nationality: Unknown
Cause of Death: Fatal shooting (Use of force)
Incident Date: October 23, 2020
Incident Location: Laredo, TX

A driver allegedly transporting undocumented people was fatally shot by Border Patrol agents.

• Border Patrol Agents Fatally Shoot Driver in Texas

140. Unknown
Age: 36
Nationality: Mexican
Cause of Death: Medical
Incident Date: October 15, 2020
Incident Location: Laredo, TX

On October 15, 2020, U.S. Border Patrol agents encountered a group of four illegal aliens south of Laredo. One of the four individuals in the group was found to be unresponsive. Agents on scene quickly called emergency medical services (EMS) and began to render aid. Soon thereafter, local EMS personnel arrived and transported the individual to the Laredo Medical Center (LMC) for medical attention. While at LMC, U.S. Customs and Border Protection personnel contacted the family in Mexico, with the assistance of the Mexican Consulate in Laredo. Unfortunately, the individual’s health condition worsened and he died in the hospital on October 17, 2020.

https://www.cbp.gov/newsroom/speeches-and-statements/cbp-statement-regarding-death-custody-laredo

139. Norma Martinez
Age: 58
Nationality: Unknown
Cause of Death: Off-Duty Homicide
Incident Date: September 23, 2020
Incident Location: El Paso, TX

Mark Martinez, a retired Border Patrol agent, shot and  killed his wife Norma Martinez on September 23rd. Norma  was found in her home in El Paso. Mark was linked to a  double homicide in 1994, but never received charges for his  involvement in the murders. Mark was found dead from a self-inflicted wound in a field in New Mexico later that  week.

• https://www.kvoa.com/news/local/southern-arizona-connection-in-el-paso-couple-s-apparent-murder-suicide/article_ecdbeaed-7fb8-5e6f-9e85-c20f3c2881ee.html

 

138. Name Withheld 
Age: 30
Nationality: Unknown
Cause of Death: Medical (dehydration)
Incident Date: September 21, 2020
Incident Location: Tucson, AZ

On September 20, 2020, medical personnel assigned to the Tucson Coordination Center, a centralized processing facility operated by U.S. Border Patrol, became aware that a man in their custody was showing symptoms of dehydration. Agents contacted EMS and the man was transported to a local Tucson hospital by the Tucson Fire Department.  On the morning of September 21, while at the hospital, the man passed away and doctors were unable to resuscitate him.

https://www.cbp.gov/newsroom/speeches-and-statements/cbp-statement-regarding-death-custody-arizona

137. Name Withheld 
Age: Unknown
Nationality: Unknown
Cause of Death: Fatal shooting (Use of force)
Incident Date: September 21, 2020
Incident Location: Nogales, AZ

A man was shot and killed by a Border Patrol agent after he wounded the agent with a knife.

• Border Patrol agent stabbed near Nogales; suspect fatally shot
• Border Patrol: Agent fatally shot suspect who attacked him with knife

136. Unknown
Age: Unknown
Nationality: Mexican
Cause of Death: Medical (COVID-19)
Incident Date: August 24, 2020
Incident Location: Texas

U.S. Customs and Border Protection is saddened to report the death of a Mexican national on Monday morning in a South Texas hospital.On July 18, 2020, Border Patrol agents assigned to the Rio Grande City station apprehended an adult Mexican national male who informed agents he felt ill and believed he had a fever. Agents rendered aid and transported the man to a local hospital directly from the field encounter location. Medical personnel determined the man was positive for COVID-19 and experiencing symptoms related to the virus. Days after being admitted, medical staff determined the man had a low oxygen saturation that required sedation and placement on a ventilator. On August 24, 2020, the man passed away. The Mexican consulate was notified of the man’s passing and will assist in notifying the family.

https://www.cbp.gov/newsroom/speeches-and-statements/cbp-statement-regarding-passing-mexican-national-due-covid

 

135. Unknown
Age: 37
Nationality: Ecuadorian
Cause of Death: Medical
Incident Date: August 17, 2020
Incident Location: Deming, NM

An undocumented migrant from Ecuador died after becoming ill during a border-crossing attempt in the Southern New Mexico desert, the U.S. Border Patrol said.The 37-year-old woman was pronounced dead after being flown by helicopter to a hospital in Deming, New Mexico

• https://www.elpasotimes.com/story/news/local/new-mexico/2020/08/19/ecuador-migrant-dies-after-found-border-patrol-deming-new-mexico-desert/5605302002/

 

134. Unknown
Age: Unknown
Nationality: Mexican
Cause of Death: Car crash (Vehicle collision)
Incident Date: July 26, 2020
Incident Location: Del Rio, TX

Border Patrol agents attempted to initiate a vehicle stop and the driver attempted to elude agents by fleeing at an accelerated speed. Agents ultimately lost sight of the vehicle and it was located a short time later where it had rolled over. Agents arrived on scene and discovered several injured persons. Two people, believed to be undocumented immigrants, were killed in the crash.

• Kinney County deputies, Border Patrol searching for driver responsible for fatal rollover crash
• CBP Statement On Accident With Fatalities

133. Unknown
Age: Unknown
Nationality: Mexican
Cause of Death: Car crash (Vehicle collision)
Incident Date: July 26, 2020
Incident Location: Del Rio, TX

Border Patrol agents attempted to initiate a vehicle stop and the driver then attempted to elude agents by fleeing at a high rate of speed. Agents ultimately lost sight of the vehicle and it was located a short time later where it had rolled over. Agents arrived on scene and discovered several injured persons. Two people who are believed to be undocumented immigrants were killed in the crash.

• Kinney County deputies, Border Patrol searching for driver responsible for fatal rollover crash
• CBP Statement On Accident With Fatalities

132. Name Withheld 
Age: Unknown
Nationality: Unknown
Cause of Death: Fatal shooting (use of force)
Incident Date: July 9, 2020
Incident Location: Calexico, CA

A man was shot and killed by CBP officers after approaching an officer and a security guard with a knife.

• U.S. border agent, security guard shot man at Calexico border crossing

131. Name Withheld 
Age: Unknown
Nationality: Unknown
Cause of Death: Unknown (medical)
Incident Date: July 5, 2020
Incident Location: Roma, Texas

U.S. Customs and Border Protection is saddened to report the death of an unidentified woman on Thursday morning in a South Texas hospital. On July 5, 2020, Border Patrol agents assigned to the Rio Grande City station were tracking a group of illegal aliens near La Grulla, Texas, when they discovered a woman who appeared to be suffering from dehydration and was semi-responsive. Agents rendered aid and contacted EMS who transported her to a local hospital. Medical personnel determined the woman required sedation and placement on a ventilator. On July 9, 2020, the woman passed away. 

https://www.cbp.gov/newsroom/speeches-and-statements/unidentified-woman-encountered-agents-passes-away-south-texas

130. Name Withheld 
Age: 39
Nationality: Unknown
Cause of Death: Unknown (Medical)
Incident Date: July 4, 2020
Incident Location: Laredo, Texas

Border Patrol agents responded to a call of a man in distress on a remote ranch. The man was taken to a hospital, where he passed away.

• CBP Statement Regarding Death in Custody in South Texas

129. Name Withheld 
Age: 19
Nationality: U.S.
Cause of Death: Car chase (Vehicle collision) 
Incident Date: June 25, 2020
Incident Location: El Paso, Texas

A pickup truck crashed after a high speed chase involving Border Patrol. This person was one of the 7 passengers who died in the crash. 

• 7 die, 3 hurt in car crash fleeing U.S. Border Patrol in Texas
• Identities released for most victims in deadly El Paso crash after Border Patrol chase; 5 from Guatemala

128. Santos Porfirio-Garcia
Age: 32
Nationality: Guatemalan
Cause of Death: Car chase (Vehicle collision) 
Incident Date: June 25, 2020
Incident Location: El Paso, Texas

A pickup truck crashed after a high speed chase involving Border Patrol. Santos Porfirio-Garcia was one of the 7 passengers who died in the crash.

• 7 die, 3 hurt in car crash fleeing U.S. Border Patrol in Texas
• Identities released for most victims in deadly El Paso crash after Border Patrol chase; 5 from Guatemala

127. Yadira Barrera
Age: 16
Nationality: American
Cause of Death: Car chase (Vehicle collision) 
Incident Date: June 25, 2020
Incident Location: El Paso, Texas

A pickup truck crashed after a high speed chase involving Border Patrol. Yadira Barrera  was one of the 7 passengers who died in the crash.

• 7 die, 3 hurt in car crash fleeing U.S. Border Patrol in Texas
• Identities released for most victims in deadly El Paso crash after Border Patrol chase; 5 from Guatemala

126. Liliana Jimenez
Age: 16
Nationality: American
Cause of Death: Car chase (Vehicle collision) 
Incident Date: June 25, 2020
Incident Location: El Paso, Texas

A pickup truck crashed after a high speed chase involving Border Patrol. Liliana Jimenez  was one of the 7 passengers who died in the crash.

• 7 die, 3 hurt in car crash fleeing U.S. Border Patrol in Texas
• Identities released for most victims in deadly El Paso crash after Border Patrol chase; 5 from Guatemala

125. Elvira Tot-Chiroy
Age: 19
Nationality: Guatemalan
Cause of Death: Car chase (Vehicle collision) 
Incident Date: June 25, 2020
Incident Location: El Paso, Texas

A pickup truck crashed after a high speed chase involving Border Patrol. Elvira Tot-Chiroy was one of the 7 passengers who died in the crash.

• 7 die, 3 hurt in car crash fleeing U.S. Border Patrol in Texas
• Identities released for most victims in deadly El Paso crash after Border Patrol chase; 5 from Guatemala

124. Oscar Miguel Garcia-Bran
Age: 21
Nationality: Guatemalan
Cause of Death: Car chase (Vehicle collision) 
Incident Date: June 25, 2020
Incident Location: El Paso, Texas

A pickup truck crashed after a high speed chase involving Border Patrol. Oscar Miguel Garcia-Bran was one of the 7 passengers who died in the crash.

• 7 die, 3 hurt in car crash fleeing U.S. Border Patrol in Texas
• Identities released for most victims in deadly El Paso crash after Border Patrol chase; 5 from Guatemala

123. Gustavo Cervantes
Age: 18
Nationality: American
Cause of Death: Car chase (Vehicle collision) 
Incident Date: June 25, 2020
Incident Location: El Paso, Texas

A pickup truck crashed after a high speed chase involving Border Patrol. Gustavo Cervantes was the driver of the pickup and died in the crash.

• 7 die, 3 hurt in car crash fleeing U.S. Border Patrol in Texas
• Identities released for most victims in deadly El Paso crash after Border Patrol chase; 5 from Guatemala

122. Unknown
Age: Unknown
Nationality: Uknown
Cause of Death: Fatal car chase
Incident Date: June 2, 2020
Incident Location: Tucson, AZ

On the evening of June 2, 2020, Border Patrol Agents assigned to the Douglas Station initiated a stop of a vehicle traveling on State Route 80, north of Douglas, AZ.  The vehicle, driven by a United States Citizen, was occupied by four individuals determined to be undocumented aliens.  Border Patrol Agents handling the traffic stop observed a second vehicle also suspected of being involved in human smuggling activity. Agents attempted to make an immigration stop of the second vehicle, however, the driver failed to yield to their lights and sirens.  A CBP Air and Marine Operations (AMO) aircraft, already on patrol in the area, responded to assist ground agents with the pursuit.  During the pursuit, CBP personnel deployed a controlled tire deflation device.  The pursuit ended when the suspect vehicle lost control and rolled over. Emergency medical personnel, including a Life Flight air ambulance, responded to the scene.  A total of five occupants were in the vehicle.  One occupant died on the scene, two were transported to a Tucson area hospital by Life Flight and remain in critical condition, and one was treated and released to Border Patrol custody.  The suspected driver, determined to be a United States Citizen, was critically injured and later died at a local hospital.  The remaining four occupants were determined to be undocumented aliens. 

https://www.cbp.gov/newsroom/speeches-and-statements/arizona-alien-smuggling-incident-results-deaths

121. Unknown
Age: Unknown
Nationality: American
Cause of Death: Fatal car chase
Incident Date: June 2, 2020
Incident Location: Tucson, AZ

On the evening of June 2, 2020, Border Patrol Agents assigned to the Douglas Station initiated a stop of a vehicle traveling on State Route 80, north of Douglas, AZ.  The vehicle, driven by a United States Citizen, was occupied by four individuals determined to be undocumented aliens.  Border Patrol Agents handling the traffic stop observed a second vehicle also suspected of being involved in human smuggling activity. Agents attempted to make an immigration stop of the second vehicle, however, the driver failed to yield to their lights and sirens.  A CBP Air and Marine Operations (AMO) aircraft, already on patrol in the area, responded to assist ground agents with the pursuit.  During the pursuit, CBP personnel deployed a controlled tire deflation device.  The pursuit ended when the suspect vehicle lost control and rolled over. Emergency medical personnel, including a Life Flight air ambulance, responded to the scene.  A total of five occupants were in the vehicle.  One occupant died on the scene, two were transported to a Tucson area hospital by Life Flight and remain in critical condition, and one was treated and released to Border Patrol custody.  The suspected driver, determined to be a United States Citizen, was critically injured and later died at a local hospital.  The remaining four occupants were determined to be undocumented aliens. 

https://www.cbp.gov/newsroom/speeches-and-statements/arizona-alien-smuggling-incident-results-deaths

120. Guadalupe David de Luna
Age: 43
Nationality: U.S. Citizen
Cause of Death: Off duty homicide
Incident Date: April 15, 2020
Incident Location: Laredo, Texas

On Wednesday, April 15, shortly after 10:30 p.m., a 43-year-old male CBP officer was detained by Laredo Police Department in connection with the shooting death of a man, later identified as a Laredo firefighter, in an off-duty domestic incident.

https://www.cbp.gov/newsroom/speeches-and-statements/statement-us-customs-and-border-protection-0

119. Unknown
Age: 61
Nationality: U.S. Citizen
Cause of Death: Unknown
Incident Date: March 30, 2020
Incident Location: San Ysidro Port of Entry

A 61-year-old U.S. citizen died after entering U.S. Customs and Border Protection custody at the San Ysidro port of entry on Sunday evening.The man was detained by CBP officers and security staff at the San Ysidro port of entry and placed into a cell after he attempted to walk into a restricted area, became non-compliant with instructions, and exhibited abnormal behavior.  A few minutes later, CBP officers noticed that the man was nonresponsive, and CBP officers with medical first responder training rendered aid until local emergency medical services personnel arrived and took over medical care shortly thereafter. 

https://www.cbp.gov/newsroom/speeches-and-statements/cbp-statement-regarding-death-custody-san-ysidro-port-entry

118. Unknown
Age: Unknown
Nationality: Unknown
Cause of Death: Fatal car chase
Incident Date: March 28, 2020
Incident Location: Yuma, AZ

On Saturday, March 28 at approximately 10:39 p.m. MST, a black Chevrolet Avalanche fled from the primary inspection area of U.S. Customs and Border Protection’s (CBP) U.S. Border Patrol Immigration Checkpoint at Interstate 8 (I-8) and continued eastbound on I-8 between Yuma and Wellton, Arizona. U.S. Border Patrol agents immediately began to pursue the vehicle. The pursuit ended when the fleeing driver lost control and the vehicle rolled over. The U.S. Border Patrol agents immediately called for Emergency Medical Services and performed First Aid on both occupants of the vehicle.  Both occupants of the vehicle ultimately succumbed to their injuries.

https://www.cbp.gov/newsroom/speeches-and-statements/cbp-statement-yuma-area-rollover-accident-fatalities

 

117. Unknown
Age: Unknown
Nationality: Unknown
Cause of Death: Fatal car chase
Incident Date: March 28, 2020
Incident Location: Yuma, AZ

On Saturday, March 28 at approximately 10:39 p.m. MST, a black Chevrolet Avalanche fled from the primary inspection area of U.S. Customs and Border Protection’s (CBP) U.S. Border Patrol Immigration Checkpoint at Interstate 8 (I-8) and continued eastbound on I-8 between Yuma and Wellton, Arizona. U.S. Border Patrol agents immediately began to pursue the vehicle. The pursuit ended when the fleeing driver lost control and the vehicle rolled over. The U.S. Border Patrol agents immediately called for Emergency Medical Services and performed First Aid on both occupants of the vehicle.  Both occupants of the vehicle ultimately succumbed to their injuries.

https://www.cbp.gov/newsroom/speeches-and-statements/cbp-statement-yuma-area-rollover-accident-fatalities

 

116. Unknown
Age: Unknown
Nationality: Unknown
Cause of Death: Fatal shooting
Incident Date: March 25, 2020
Incident Location: El Paso, Texas

On March 24, agents from U.S. Border Patrol’s Special Operations Group in El Paso, Texas responded to a request for assistance from El Paso County Sheriff’s Office (EPCSO). Deputies were searching for an armed and dangerous subject who fired at law enforcement officers during a warrant service earlier that day. The subject was located and began firing at the deputies and agents while they approached the location. Deputies and agents 

https://www.cbp.gov/newsroom/speeches-and-statements/cbp-statement-march-24-shooting-el-paso

 

115. Unknown
Age: Unknown
Nationality: Mexican
Cause of Death: Medical
Incident Date: March 20, 2020
Incident Location: Cuevitos, Texas

U.S. Customs and Border Protection is saddened to report that a Mexican male was pronounced deceased early Friday morning just south of Cuevitas, Texas. Our condolences are with his family.Early Friday morning, on March 20, 2020, a male Mexican national was encountered by Rio Grande Valley Sector Border Patrol agents as part of a group of individuals. The subject was taken into custody and placed in a Border Patrol vehicle while agents continued to apprehend more subjects. The subject was discovered to be unresponsive when agents returned to the vehicle. Border Patrol Search, Trauma and Rescue (BORSTAR) agents attempted life-saving measures until Emergency Medical personnel arrived. Despite the best efforts of emergency medical personnel, he was pronounced deceased a short time later.“This loss of life is tragic, despite the best efforts of our Border Patrol agents and medical professionals,” said Rio Grande Valley Border Patrol Sector Chief Brian Hastings. “Making the dangerous journey to the United States has potentially deadly consequences and we want everyone to think twice before putting their lives in the hands of human smugglers and other criminal organizations.”

https://www.cbp.gov/newsroom/speeches-and-statements/cbp-statement-regarding-death-mexican-citizen

114. James Paul Markowitz
Age: 32
Nationality: American
Cause of Death: Unknown
Incident Date: February 4, 2020
Incident Location: Bracketville, Texas

James Paul Markowitz was apprehended surrounding an "illegal smuggling incident" on February 4, 2020. Markowitz began exhibiting "signs of distress" that evening, and was administered first aid, then transferred to a local hospital, where he was pronounced dead. 

• A US Citizen Died While Being Detained By Border Patrol Agents Over A "Smuggling Incident" 

2019

17 deaths

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113. Name Withheld
Age: 41
Nationality: Congolese
Cause of Death: Acute Kidney Failure (Medical)
Incident Date: December 25, 2019
Incident Location: Lincoln Juarez Bridge, Laredo, Texas

A female migrant seeking asylum in the United States died on Christmas Day in government custody when she crossed the Gateway Bridge in Texas with her family, before reportedly succumbing to acute kidney failure. She came with paperwork that documented a “previous medical condition”, CBP said. The agency's medical personnel cleared her to be detained overnight. She was traveling with her husband and two children, who were subsequently released.

• Congolese woman dies in US custody after crossing border into Texas
• Statement on Death of Congolese National in Laredo
• Congolese migrant dies after night in CBP facility

112. Name Withheld
Age: 42
Nationality: Mexican
Cause of Death: Alleged suicide 
Incident Date: December 21, 2019
Incident Location: East Hidalgo Detention Center

On December 20, CBP officers at the Hidalgo Port of Entry detained a male 42-year-old Mexican national who claimed to be a US Citizen.  He was arrested and processed for Expedited Removal and was held for criminal prosecution. The individual passed away at the East Hidalgo Detention Center on Dec. 21, 2019. According to initial reports, the cause of death is suspected to be the result of suicide.  The incident remains under investigation by La Villa Police Department, and CBP’s Office of Professional Responsibility.

• CBP Statement on Death in Custody
• CBP Investigating Possible Suicide of Mexican National at Jail in Hidalgo County

 

111. Name Withheld
Age: Not released
Nationality: Not released
Cause of Death: Fatal shooting (Use of force)
Incident Date: November 3, 2019
Incident Location: Sunland Park, New Mexico as suburb of El Paso, Texas

A Border Patrol agent approached a group of four people early Monday, and one of them pulled out a gun and started shooting, according to a statement from CBP. The agent fired back, hitting the man, who died at a hospital. No additional information was released, including the names of the agent and gunman. The CBP’s Office of Professional Responsibility is investigating.

• Border Patrol agent fatally shoots gunman who opened fire
• Border Patrol Agent Kills Gunman Who Reportedly Opened Fire Near U.S.-Mexico Border

110. Name Withheld
Age: 33
Nationality: Mexican
Cause of Death: Severe dehydration (Medical)
Incident Date: October 26, 2019
Incident Location: Tubac, Arizona

A woman died in Border Patrol custody, following nearly two weeks in the hospital. The woman was in need of medical care when an Arizona sheriff's deputy found her on October 13 near Tubac, about 40 kilometers north of the border city of Nogales. She was suffering from "severe dehydration."

• Hospitalized Woman Dies in US Border Patrol Custody
• Mexican woman dies while in Border Patrol custody

109. Name Unknown
Age: Unkown
Nationality: Unknown
Cause of Death: Car accident (Vehicle collision) 
Incident Date: Some time around October 21, 2019
Incident Location: Texas highway

The man fled from agents across a Texas highway and was hit by a car. No more details can be found at the moment.

• Hospitalized Woman Dies in US Border Patrol Custody

108. Name Withheld
Age: 49
Nationality: Mexican
Cause of Death: Unknown
Incident Date: October 21, 2019
Incident Location: Tucson, Arizona (South of Casa Grande)

On October 20, at 1 pm, a Mexican man was apprehended by Border Patrol agents, south of Casa Grande. During processing it was determined the man needed medical attention and was transported to a Tucson area hospital. Medical officials determined that the man had a pre-existing heart condition. The next day, at approximately 9 am, the man was pronounced deceased.

• CBP Statement on Death in Custody
• Mexican man dies at Tucson hospital while in Border Patrol custody
• Mexican migrant in Border Patrol custody dies at Arizona hospital

107. Name Withheld
Age: 32
Nationality: Salvadoran
Cause of Death: unknown
Incident Date: August 1, 2019
Incident Location: Lordsburg, New Mexico

A man died while in Border Patrol custody. According to reports, he was taken into custody at the El Paso Border Patrol Station and was being processed at the Lordsburg Border Patrol Station when he fell into medical distress and later died.

• Statement on Death of Salvadoran Man in Lordsburg, NM

106. Name Withheld
Age: 52
Nationality: Nicaraguan
Cause of Death: unknown
Incident Date: July 5, 2019
Incident Location: Tucson, Arizona

A man died while in Border Patrol custody. According to reports, he was part of a group of 36 asylum-seekers who turned themselves in to be processed.

• 52-year-old migrant dies in U.S. custody
• Nicaraguan Man Dies While In Border Patrol Custody In Arizona

105. Travis James Eckstein
Age: 23
Nationality: U.S.
Cause of Death: Fatal Shooting
Incident Date: June 3, 2019
Incident Location: San Ysidro port of entry, California

CBP officers fatally shot a man during a shootout that occurred at secondary inspection at the San Ysidro Port of Entry.

• 23-year-old American dies after shootout with border patrol agents at port of entry near San Diego
• Border Officers Kill 23-Year-Old U.S. Citizen During Shootout at San Ysidro Port of Entry

104. Name Not Yet Released
Age: 40
Nationality: Honduran
Cause of Death: Unknown (Medical)
Incident Date: June 3, 2019
Incident Location: Eagle Pass, Texas

A woman was apprehended at the border by CBP, when she collapsed shortly after. She was taken to a hospital, where she was pronounced dead.

• Third undocumented migrant in 3 days dies after being apprehended at US-Mexico border
• Honduran woman becomes third undocumented migrant to die in 3 days after being apprehended at U.S.-Mexico border

103. Name Not Yet Released
Age: 33
Nationality: Salvadoran
Cause of Death: Unknown (Medical)
Incident Date: June 3, 2019
Incident Location: Roma, Texas

 A man was apprehended by CBP, and began having a seizure. He was given emergency care by an EMT-certified CBP agent, and taken to a hospital, where he died.

• CBP confirms death of El Salvadorian man seeking asylum
• Third undocumented migrant in 3 days dies after being apprehended at US-Mexico border

102. Carlos Hernandez Vásquez

Age: 16 
Nationality: Guatemalan
Cause of Death: Influenza A (Medical)
Incident Date: May 20, 2019
Incident Location: Welasco, Texas

A  boy who was apprehended on May 13, was found unresponsive by CBP during a welfare check at the Weslaco Station, where he ultimately died.

• 16-year-old migrant boy dies in U.S. custody, 5th child to die since December
• Guatemalan teen boy is latest migrant child to die in U.S. custody
• Inside the Cell Where a Sick 16-Year-Old Boy Died in Border Patrol Care

101. Wilmer Josué Ramírez Vásquez

Age: 2 
Nationality: Guatemalan
Cause of Death: Pneumonia (Medical)
Incident Date: May 14, 2019
Incident Location: El Paso,Texas

The toddler's mother asked for medical assistance for him after noticing he was ill on April 6, 2019, then transferred to Providence Children's Hospital in El Paso the Next day, where he remained until he died.

• A 2-Year-Old Boy Detained At The Border Has Died After Weeks In The Hospital

100. Name not released 

Age: Unknown
Nationality: Unknown
Cause of Death:Car chase (Vehicle collision)
Incident Date: April 6, 2019
Incident Location: New Mexico

The unnamed person was ejected from a vehicle after El Paso Border Patrol chased the car on Highway 9 in New Mexico. The Border Patrol agents deployed a tire deflation device, which the vehicle swerved to avoid, causing it to roll over, eject people from the vehicle and fatally wound two people.

• Two Killed After Van Flips Over During Car Chase With Border Patrol

99. Name not released 

Age: Unknown
Nationality: Unknown
Cause of Death: Car chase (Vehicle collision)
Incident Date: April 6, 2019
Incident Location: New Mexico

The unnamed person was ejected from a vehicle after El Paso Border Patrol chased the car on Highway 9 in New Mexico. The Border Patrol agents deployed a tire deflation device, which the vehicle swerved to avoid, causing it to roll over, eject people from the vehicle and fatally wound two people.

• Two Killed After Van Flips Over During Car Chase With Border Patrol

98. Name not released 

Age: 40
Nationality: Mexican
Cause of Death: Unknown
Incident Date: March 18, 2019
Incident Location: El Paso, Texas

This person was apprehended on March 18 and died the next day at Las Palmas Medical Center in El Paso, Texas, after being diagnosed with flu-like symptoms, liver failure and renal failure.

• A 40-Year-Old Mexican Immigrant Died In US Custody — The Fourth Death In Recent Months
• Immigrant dies in Border Patrol custody, 4th death in recent months

97. Name not released 

Age: 45
Nationality: Mexican
Cause of Death: Unknown
Incident Date: February 19, 2019
Incident Location: McAllen, Texas

The man was in Border Patrol custody since February 2. He requested medical attention after he was found near a port of entry. He was seen at a Mission medical center, cleared for travel, and returned to Border Patrol custody. While in custody, he again requested medical attention, and was under medical care in McAllen until he died. He was diagnosed with cirrhosis of the liver and congestive heart failure, but the official cause of death is unknown.

• Mexican National Dies While In Custody Of Customs And Border Protection

2018

17 deaths

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96. Felipe Alonzo-Gomez

Age: 8
Nationality: Guatemalan 
Cause of Death: Influenza B (Medical)
Incident Date: December 24, 2018
Incident Location: El Paso, Texas

After being in Border Patrol custody for almost a week, Felipe fell ill, was taken to the hospital, misdiagnosed with a cold, and sent back to CBP custody. Felipe began vomiting and was taken back to the hospital, where he died before midnight.

• The final days of Felipe Alonzo-Gomez, the 8-year-old migrant who died in US custody7-year-old Guatemalan girl who died in Border Patrol custody is identified

95. Jakelin Amei Rosmery Caal Maquin

Age: 7
Nationality: Guatemalan 
Cause of Death: Cardiac arrest caused by severe dehydration and shock (Medical)
Incident Date: December 8, 2018
Incident Location: El Paso, Texas

Jakelin died in Border Patrol custody after being detained with her father and others in the New Mexico desert.

• 7-year-old Guatemalan girl who died in Border Patrol custody is identified

94. Unknown

Age: Unknown
Nationality: Unknown
Cause of Death: Fatal Car Chase
Incident Date: November 28, 2018
Incident Location: San Diego, CA

On November 27th, 2018, the U.S. Border Patrol chased a  truck carrying 11 passengers in San Diego, California.  During the high-speed chase, which began at Interstate 8,  U.S. Border Patrol laid spike strips on the road in an  attempt to stop a vehicle. Upon passing over the spikes,  the truck crashed and rolled over, resulting in the death of three people.

https://www.cnn.com/2018/1 2/01/us/california-border patrol-deadly crash/index.html

93. Unknown

Age: Unknown
Nationality: Unknown
Cause of Death: Fatal Car Chase
Incident Date: November 28, 2018
Incident Location: San Diego, CA

On November 27th, 2018, the U.S. Border Patrol chased a  truck carrying 11 passengers in San Diego, California.  During the high-speed chase, which began at Interstate 8,  U.S. Border Patrol laid spike strips on the road in an  attempt to stop a vehicle. Upon passing over the spikes,  the truck crashed and rolled over, resulting in the death of three people.

https://www.cnn.com/2018/1 2/01/us/california-border patrol-deadly crash/index.html

92. Unknown

Age: Unknown
Nationality: Unknown
Cause of Death: Fatal Car Chase
Incident Date: November 28, 2018
Incident Location: San Diego, CA

On November 27th, 2018, the U.S. Border Patrol chased a  truck carrying 11 passengers in San Diego, California.  During the high-speed chase, which began at Interstate 8,  U.S. Border Patrol laid spike strips on the road in an  attempt to stop a vehicle. Upon passing over the spikes,  the truck crashed and rolled over, resulting in the death of three people.

https://www.cnn.com/2018/1 2/01/us/california-border patrol-deadly crash/index.html

91. Janelle Ortiz (aka Nikki Enriquez)

Age: 28
Nationality: Unknown 
Cause of Death: Fatal shooting (Off-duty homicide)
Incident Date: September 14, 2018
Incident Location: Laredo, Texas

An off-duty supervisory Border Patrol agent, Juan David Ortiz, was arrested on September 15, 2018, for the deaths of four people, including trans woman Janelle, after a would-be fifth victim narrowly escaped harm and alerted a police officer.

• What we know about Laredo's 'serial killer' victims
• A woman’s daring escape from a Border Patrol agent helped reveal a ‘serial killer,’ police say
• US Border Patrol agent arrested in 4 deaths described as serial killer
• Border Patrol agent accused of serial killings wanted to 'commit suicide by cop,' officials say

90. Guiselda Hernandez

Age: 25
Nationality: Unknown 
Cause of Death: Fatal shooting (Off-duty homicide)
Incident Date: September 14, 2018
Incident Location: Laredo, Texas

An off-duty supervisory Border Patrol agent was arrested on September 15, 2018, for the deaths of four people after a would-be fifth victim narrowly escaped harm and alerted a police officer.

• What we know about Laredo's 'serial killer' victims
• A woman’s daring escape from a Border Patrol agent helped reveal a ‘serial killer,’ police say
• US Border Patrol agent arrested in 4 deaths described as serial killer
• Border Patrol agent accused of serial killings wanted to 'commit suicide by cop,' officials say

99. Claudine Ann Luera

Age: 42
Nationality: Unknown 
Cause of Death: Fatal shooting (Off-duty homicide)
Incident Date: September 13, 2018
Incident Location: Laredo, Texas

An off-duty supervisory Border Patrol agent was arrested on September 15, 2018, for the deaths of four people after a would-be fifth victim narrowly escaped harm and alerted a police officer. A supervisory US Border Patrol agent who authorities are calling a serial killer was arrested on September 15, 2018, in the deaths of four people after a would-be fifth victim narrowly escaped harm and alerted a police officer.

• The Hunt for the Serial Killer of Laredo
• What we know about Laredo's 'serial killer' victims
• A woman’s daring escape from a Border Patrol agent helped reveal a ‘serial killer,’ police say
• US Border Patrol agent arrested in 4 deaths described as serial killer
• Border Patrol agent accused of serial killings wanted to 'commit suicide by cop,' officials say

88. Melissa Ramirez 

Age: 29
Nationality: Unknown
Cause of Death: Fatal shooting (Off-duty homicide)
Incident Date: September 3, 2018
Incident Location: Laredo, Texas

An off-duty supervisory Border Patrol agent was arrested on September 15, 2018, for the deaths of four people after a would-be fifth victim narrowly escaped harm and alerted a police officer. A supervisory US Border Patrol agent who authorities are calling a serial killer was arrested on September 15, 2018, in the deaths of four people after a would-be fifth victim narrowly escaped harm and alerted a police officer.

• What we know about Laredo's 'serial killer' victims
• A woman’s daring escape from a Border Patrol agent helped reveal a ‘serial killer,’ police say
• US Border Patrol agent arrested in 4 deaths described as serial killer
• Border Patrol agent accused of serial killings wanted to 'commit suicide by cop,' officials say

87. Unknown

Age: Unknown
Nationality: Unknown
Cause of Death: Fatal car chase
Incident Date: June 17, 2018
Incident Location: Big Texas, Texas

US Border Patrol agents chased an SUV carrying 14 people on a rural road about 125 miles southwest of San Antonio. Dimmit County Sheriff Marion Boyd alleged that the vehicle ran off the road, caught gravel, tried to  recorrect, and as a result turned over several times,  resulting in the deaths of five of the passengers.

https://www.jacksonville.com/story/news/2018/06/17/5-dead-as-suv-chased-by-border-patrol-crashes-in-south-texas/11951386007/

86. Unknown

Age: Unknown
Nationality: Unknown
Cause of Death: Fatal car chase
Incident Date: June 17, 2018
Incident Location: Big Texas, Texas

US Border Patrol agents chased an SUV carrying 14 people on a rural road about 125 miles southwest of San Antonio. Dimmit County Sheriff Marion Boyd alleged that the vehicle ran off the road, caught gravel, tried to  recorrect, and as a result turned over several times,  resulting in the deaths of five of the passengers.

https://www.jacksonville.com/story/news/2018/06/17/5-dead-as-suv-chased-by-border-patrol-crashes-in-south-texas/11951386007/

85. Unknown

Age: Unknown
Nationality: Unknown
Cause of Death: Fatal car chase
Incident Date: June 17, 2018
Incident Location: Big Texas, Texas

US Border Patrol agents chased an SUV carrying 14 people on a rural road about 125 miles southwest of San Antonio. Dimmit County Sheriff Marion Boyd alleged that the vehicle ran off the road, caught gravel, tried to  recorrect, and as a result turned over several times,  resulting in the deaths of five of the passengers.

https://www.jacksonville.com/story/news/2018/06/17/5-dead-as-suv-chased-by-border-patrol-crashes-in-south-texas/11951386007/

84. Unknown

Age: Unknown
Nationality: Unknown
Cause of Death: Fatal car chase
Incident Date: June 17, 2018
Incident Location: Big Texas, Texas

US Border Patrol agents chased an SUV carrying 14 people on a rural road about 125 miles southwest of San Antonio. Dimmit County Sheriff Marion Boyd alleged that the vehicle ran off the road, caught gravel, tried to  recorrect, and as a result turned over several times,  resulting in the deaths of five of the passengers.

https://www.jacksonville.com/story/news/2018/06/17/5-dead-as-suv-chased-by-border-patrol-crashes-in-south-texas/11951386007/

83. Unknown

Age: Unknown
Nationality: Unknown
Cause of Death: Fatal car chase
Incident Date: June 17, 2018
Incident Location: Big Texas, Texas

US Border Patrol agents chased an SUV carrying 14 people on a rural road about 125 miles southwest of San Antonio. Dimmit County Sheriff Marion Boyd alleged that the vehicle ran off the road, caught gravel, tried to  recorrect, and as a result turned over several times,  resulting in the deaths of five of the passengers.

https://www.jacksonville.com/story/news/2018/06/17/5-dead-as-suv-chased-by-border-patrol-crashes-in-south-texas/11951386007/

82. Claudia Patricia Gomez Gonzalez 

Age: 20
Nationality: Guatemalan
Cause of Death: Fatal shooting (Use of force)
Incident Date: May 23, 2018
Incident Location: Rio Bravo, Texas

A Border Patrol agent shot and killed Claudia after a group had attempted to cross the Texas border irregularly and allegedly rushed the agent, according to Customs and Border Protection. Customs and Border Protection has previously changed the retelling of the event from a rocking incident to a group rushing the agents. The FBI is launching an investigation.

• Border patrol agent kills woman attempting to cross Texas border

81. Robert Young III

Age: 29
Nationality: Unknown
Cause of Death: Fatal shooting (Off-duty homicie)
Incident Date: February 12, 2018
Incident Location: Pinecrest, FL

A burglar busted through the glass doors of a house in the upscale village of Pinecrest early Monday morning, only to face a deadly barrage of bullets from the homeowner — a high-ranking Miami federal agent.

• A federal agent shoots and kills intruder inside Pinecrest home, police say

80. Juan Daniel Jacques

Age: 33
Nationality: N/A 
Cause of Death: Fatal shooting (Off-duty homicie)
Incident Date: January 2018
Incident Location: Socorro, TX

According to new reports, Juan Daniel Jacques attacked an off-duty Border Patrol agent so the agent fired his duty weapon.

• Family of man killed by off-duty border patrol agent are demanding answers

2017

12 deaths

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79. Rolando Chávez Chávez 

Age: 26
Nationality: Guatemala 
Cause of Death: Fatal shooting (Use of force)
Incident Date: November 29, 2017
Incident Location: Southwest of Tucson, AZ

According to Border Patrol, Chávez attacked an agent while being taken into custody and a struggle ensued where Chávez grabbed the agent’s gun. A second officer fired at Chavez during the struggle.

• Man shot in struggle with border agent ID'ed as Guatemalan, 26

78. Rodolfo Ballardo 

Age: 31
Nationality: U.S. 
Cause of Death: Fatal shooting (Use of force)
Incident Date: September 2017
Incident Location: Southwest of Tucson, AZ

According to authorities, Ballardo shot an Arizona State Trooper and fled the scene. Border Patrol found the car Ballardo had taken off in and an exchange of gunfire occurred, resulting in his death.

• Man killed in Arizona shootout with police on Interstate 10 identified

77. Unknown 

Age: 30
Nationality: Unknown 
Cause of Death: Car accident (Vehicle collision)
Incident Date: September 17, 2017
Incident Location: San Ysidro, CA

According to news reports, a man was hit by a car after fleeing from a van that was crossing into the U.S.

• Two killed after attempt to cross U.S.-Mexico border, authorities say
• Fatal Port Runner Attempt at San Ysidro

76. Unknown 

Age: 30
Nationality: Unknown
Cause of Death: Car accident (Vehicle collision)
Incident Date: September 17, 2017
Incident Location: San Ysidro, CA

According to news reports, a woman was hit by a car after fleeing from a van that was crossing into the U.S.

• Two killed after attempt to cross U.S.-Mexico border, authorities say
• Fatal Port Runner Attempt at San Ysidro

75. Isarel Caballero 

Age: 18
Nationality: U.S. Citizen 
Cause of Death: Car chase (Vehicle collision)
Incident Date: August 10, 2017
Incident Location: San Diego, CA

According to news reports, Border Patrol agents said they were pursuing the SUV because the license plate was suspected to have been connected to a homicide investigation and human smuggling operations. Moments after the  driver lost control, the SUV slammed into a guardrail and went over the side of the interstate.

• Authorities Identify 3 Killed in Border Patrol Pursuit Crash on I-15

74. Gloria Lopez

Age: 15 
Nationality: Mexican 
Cause of Death: Car chase (Vehicle collision)
Incident Date: August 10, 2017
Incident Location: San Diego, CA

According to news reports, Border Patrol agents said they were pursuing the SUV because the license plate was suspected to have been connected to a homicide investigation and human smuggling operations. Moments after the  driver lost control, the SUV slammed into a guardrail and went over the side of the interstate.

• Authorities Identify 3 Killed in Border Patrol Pursuit Crash on I-15

73. Raul Quiroz

Age: 20 
Nationality: Mexican 
Cause of Death: Car chase (Vehicle collision)
Incident Date: August 10, 2017
Incident Location: San Diego, CA

According to news reports, Border Patrol agents said they were pursuing the SUV because the license plate was suspected to have been connected to a homicide investigation and human smuggling operations. Moments after the  driver lost control, the SUV slammed into a guardrail and went over the side of the interstate.

• Authorities Identify 3 Killed in Border Patrol Pursuit Crash on I-15

72. Unknown

Age: Unknown
Nationality: U.S. Citizen
Cause of Death: Fatal shooting
Incident Date: April 7, 2017
Incident Location: Las Cruces, New Mexico

The individual involved in a shooting at the U.S. Border Patrol checkpoint on I-25 near Las Cruces, N.M., last month has died. The adult, who sustained a self-inflicted gunshot wound and was not struck by agents, died at a local hospital on Friday, May 5, 2017. The individual approached the primary inspection lane at the checkpoint on April 9, 2017, and was referred to a secondary inspection. Agents said they heard a gunshot and fired their weapons.

https://www.lcsun-news.com/story/news/local/2017/05/05/man-shot-border-checkpoint-dies/101353470/

71. Unknown

Age: Unknown
Nationality: Unknown
Cause of Death: Alleged suicide
Incident Date: April 4, 2017
Incident Location: New Mexico

New Mexico State Police claim that the driver of a vehicle  suspected in a road rage incident became argumentative  with  Border Patrol agents at the I-10 Border Patrol  Checkpoint. The vehicle's tires were punctured by spike  strips, and the driver subsequently drove across the  median from the westbound lanes into eastbound lanes, hit  a fence, and traveled over the embankment before  stopping in a field. Police claimed that the driver was found  dead from a self-inflicted gunshot wound. 

• https://www.elpasotimes.co m/story/news/immigration/20 19/04/07/border-patrol

70. Clarence Duane Hudarte

Age: 73
Nationality: U.S. Citizen 
Cause of Death: Fatal Shooting
Incident Date: March 20, 2017
Incident Location: Warren Minnesota 

Clarence Duane Huderle, an elderly man from Minnesota,  fired at a mail carrier and sheriff's deputy at his home in  March and was killed by an agent with the U.S. Border  Patrol, according to an investigation by the state. The Polk County Sheriff's Office ruled shooting was justified.

https://www.crookstontimes.com/story/news/crime/2017/08/31/march-police-shooting-polk-county/18954255007/

69. Unknown

Age: Unknown 
Nationality: Unknown
Cause of Death: Car chase (Vehicle collision)
Incident Date: February 23, 2017
Incident Location: Lordsburg, NM

According to news reports, U.S. Border Patrol agents from the El Paso sector were involved in a chase that led to the crash.

• Border Patrol agents chased vehicle involved in deadly rollover

68. Unknown

Age: Unknown
Nationality: Unknown
Cause of Death: Car chase (Vehicle collision)
Incident Date: February 23, 2017
Incident Location: Lordsburg, NM

According to news reports, Border Patrol agents from the El Paso sector were involved in a chase that led to the crash and the death of two individuals.

• Border Patrol agents chased vehicle involved in deadly rollover

 

2016

7 deaths

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67. Unknown

Age: Unknown 
Nationality: Uknown
Cause of Death: Fatal shooting
Incident Date: July 15, 2016
Incident Location: Laredo, TX

According to CBP, agents subdued a male in Laredo, TX near the river. While escorting the man to the vehicle, the man became unresponsive. Laredo Emergency Medical Services arrived and transported the man to a local hospital where he was pronounced dead.

66. Unknown

Age: Unknown 
Nationality: Mexican
Cause of Death: Fatal shooting (Use of force)
Incident Date: June 9, 2016
Incident Location: Yuma, AZ

According to the Yuma Sector Border Patrol Public Affairs Office, a U.S. Border Patrol agent shot and killed a suspected undocumented individual during a struggle.

• Yuma border agent shoots, kills illegal border crosser

65. Unknown

Age: Unknown 
Nationality: Unknown 
Cause of Death: Car chase (Vehicle collision)
Incident Date: May 22, 2016
Incident Location: Near Laredo, TX

One person died and 10 others were injured north of Laredo in a chase that ended in a crash.

• 1 dead, 10 injured in crash after Border Patrol chase north of Laredo

64. Unknown

Age: Unknown 
Nationality: Unknown 
Cause of Death: Car chase (Vehicle collision)
Incident Date: March 23, 2016
Incident Location: Yuma, AZ

Individuals fleeing in a vehicle from CBP collided with a tractor-trailer on Interstate 8, killing two and injuring four individuals.

• Sonoran News Border Report

63. Unknown

Age: Unknown 
Nationality: Unknown 
Cause of Death: Car chase (Vehicle collision)
Incident Date: March 23, 2016
Incident Location: Yuma, AZ

Individuals fleeing in a vehicle from CBP collided with a tractor-trailer on Interstate 8, killing two and injuring four individuals.

• Sonoran News Border Report

62. Hector Leroy 

Age: 43
Nationality: Unknown
Cause of Death: Fatal shooting (Use of force)
Incident Date: February 4, 2016
Incident Location: El Paso, Texas

According to CBP, at approximately 5:45 pm, three Border Patrol agents were on patrol in the downtown area, near the Greyhound Bus Station. The agents heard the sound of gunshots and immediately responded. Agents observed a wounded person lying on the ground and a man fleeing the scene on foot between Overland and El Paso streets.

The three agents pursued the subject who approached a pickup truck and pointed a gun at the driver in an attempt to carjack the vehicle. Agents drew their service-issued firearms and ordered the subject to drop the weapon. The man turned and pointed his gun at one of the agents. Another agent then discharged his firearm and the man fell to the ground.

• Two dead after downtown El Paso shooting involving Border Patrol

2015

11 deaths

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60. Unknown

Age: Unknown
Nationality: Unknown 
Cause of Death: Fatal shooting (Use of force)
Incident Date: October 21, 2015
Incident Location: Calexico, CA

A man was shot and killed Wednesday morning after allegedly attacking customs officers with a knife at the Calexico West Port of Entry.

• Border officer shoots, kills man with knife

59. Rayshaun Cole

Age: 30
Nationality: Unknown 
Cause of Death: Fatal shooting (Off-duty homicide)
Incident Date: October 17, 2015
Incident Location: Chula Vista, CA

An off-duty CBP officer fatally shot her boyfriend in their Chula Vista apartment Saturday, telling police that it was in self-defense as he was hitting her, authorities said.

• Border officer fatally shoots boyfriend, claims self-defense

58. Unknown

Age: Unknown
Nationality: Unknown 
Cause of Death: Fatal shooting (Use of force)
Incident Date: September 23, 2015
Incident Location: Drummond Island, MI

Michigan State Troopers were searching for a missing person alert on Drummond Island, MI and requested assistance  from Border Patrol Agents. Border Patrol Agents  entered a dwelling where shots were fired and they killed a civilian.

• Sept. 24, 2015 use of force incident near Drummond Island, MI

57. Richard Matt

Age: 49 
Nationality: U.S. 
Cause of Death: Fatal shooting (Use of force)
Incident Date: June 26, 2015
Incident Location: New York

• The Inside Story of the Takedown of Richard Matt

56. Graciela Lopez Franco

Age: 32
Nationality: Mexico
Cause of Death: Drowning (Use of force)
Incident Date: June 18, 2015
Incident Location: Off the coast of Encinitas, CA

According to a filed complaint, 20 people were onboard a panga a few minutes after midnight on June 18, 2015, seven miles off the coast of Encinitas when Border Patrol officers spotted the low-riding boat. Supervisor Hunter, Linscott, and Jenkins, riding in a 38-foot M901 patrol vessel, approached the panga. Once within range, the officers failed to use their intercom or lights on their vessel and instead, read the complaint, and ran straight toward the panga. The officers then directed a “flash-bang” explosion at the immigrants’ vessel. Officer Linscott fired several shots from his gun into the outboard motor, disabling it. The officers then rammed their boat into the panga, splitting it into several pieces.

• Suit alleges brutish Border Patrol behavior at sea
• CBP Boat Collision with Panga Results in Tragic Death of a Woman Passenger

55. Unknown

Age: Unknown 
Nationality: Colombian
Cause of Death: Fatal Shooting (Use of force)
Incident Date: May 17, 2015
Incident Location: British Virgin Islands 

• Update: 16 bales of cocaine seized in recent drug bust

54. Jamison E. Childress

Age: 20
Nationality: Canadian
Cause of Death: Fatal shooting (Use of force)
Incident Date: March 19, 2015
Incident Location: Sumas, Washington

Border Patrol agents shot and killed Childress after he set off ground sensors at the U.S.-Canada border crossing near Sumas, Washington.

53. Jose Francisco Rodriguez Palacios Paz

Age: Unknown
Nationality: Honduran
Cause of Death: Off Duty Homicide
Incident Date: March 2015
Incident Location: Texas

Border Patrol agent Luna was found to have been engaged  in criminal activity with the Gulf Cartel. Luna was also found  responsible for killing and mutilating Jose "Franklin" Paz, whose headless body was found off the shore of South  Padre Island. Officer Luna was acquitted on murder  charges but found guilty for criminal activity; his brother  was found guilty of capital murder.

52. Unknown

Age: Unknown
Nationality: Unknown
Cause of Death: Medical
Incident Date: February 18, 2015
Incident Location: Marfa TX

A Mexican citizen was apprehended by Border Patrol  agents on Tuesday, February 17 in Marfa, TX for alleged  illegal entry into the country. On Wednesday, February  18th, the man became ill at the Marfa Border Patrol  Station. Border Patrol agents allegedly rendered aid and  contacted Emergency Medical Services - who were unable  to revive the man.

51. Tiano Meton

Age: 25
Nationality: Unknown
Cause of Death: Fatal shooting (Use of force)
Incident Date: January 22, 2015
Incident Location: El Paso, Texas

According to CBP, Border Patrol agents shot and killed a man who had driven through a West Texas checkpoint without stopping for an inspection. The shooting happened around 5 pm. Agents pursued the vehicle for 30 miles before it finally stopped. A pistol-shaped pellet gun was recovered from the vehicle.

• Border Patrol shoots, kills man who drove through checkpoint

50. Name Not Released

Age: Not Released 
Nationality: Unknown
Cause of Death: Fatal shooting (Use of force)
Incident Date: January 21, 2015
Incident Location: Chapeno, TX

According to the CBP statement, on January 21, 2015, at approximately 2 a.m., U.S. Border Patrol agents from Rio Grande City Station responded to drug smuggling activity near the small community of Chapeño, Texas, west of Roma. As the agents secured the narcotics load, one agent searching the area for smugglers came under fire. The agent returned fire striking [and killing] one subject. The FBI, Starr County Sheriff’s Office, with the assistance of the DPS Texas Rangers are investigating the incident.  Rio Grande Valley Sector is fully cooperating with the investigation.

2014

12 deaths

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49. Francisco Manuel Cesena

Age: 40
Nationality: U.S. 
Cause of Death: Unknown
Incident Date: December 24, 2014
Incident Location: San Ysidro port of entry, San Diego

According to San Diego Police and the Medical Examiner’s Office, Francisco Manuel Cesena was crossing into the U.S. through the San Ysidro Port of Entry, when he was detained by the CBP officials. Cesena allegedly jumped over a counter and attacked an official. He collapsed after the official used a  taser on him. He was declared dead at the Sharp Chula Vista Medical Center. A cause of death has not been determined.

• Man Dies in Custody at U.S. Border Crossing

48. Adam Thomas

Age: 27
Nationality: U.S. 
Cause of Death: Fatal shooting (Off-duty homicide)
Incident Date: November, 8, 2014
Incident Location: Hemet, CA

An off-duty Border Patrol agent, John Demery, confronted a neighbor and fatally shot him multiple times. A six-year veteran of the Border Patrol assigned to the Murrieta station, Demery was placed on paid administrative leave after the shooting.

47. Amaro Lopez

Age: 23
Nationality: Mexican
Cause of Death: Fatal shooting (Use of force)
Incident Date: October 24, 2014
Incident Location: Southwest of Tucson, AZ

According to the Pima County Medical Examiner’s Office, Lopez died of a single gunshot to the head. Two BP agents were after several men in the area of West Hermans and South Sandario roads when one of the men tried to shoot one of the agents. One agent fired his weapon in response. The other members of the group ran off.

• Man fatally shot by Border Patrol identified

 

46. Unknown

Age: 36
Nationality: U.S. Citizen
Cause of Death: Unknown (Medical)
Incident Date: October 17, 2014
Incident Location: Holding cell in BP checkpoint between Carlsbad, NM, and El Paso, TX

This person died while in Border Patrol custody in Texas. CBP says the man was found unresponsive in a holding cell at a Border Patrol checkpoint between Carlsbad, NM and El Paso, TX.

• Man dies in Border Patrol custody in Texas

 

45. Aide Fink

Age: 50
Nationality: U.S. Citizen
Cause of Death: Unknown
Incident Date: September 25, 2014
Incident Location: Flower Mound, TX (near Dallas)

Police arrested Daniel Fink, a 40-year-old Border Patrol agent, for the murder of his estranged wife while he was off duty. The woman was found with multiple gunshot wounds just after midnight Thursday inside a house on Heather Glen Drive near Glenwick Boulevard. Police say a 16-year-old inside the home called 911. The victim was taken to a local hospital where she died. The woman’s three children, ages 7, 11, and 16, were inside the house at the time of the shooting. Court records show his wife filed for divorce back in August.

• 3 Children in Flower Mound Home During Fatal Shooting
• Fink gets 50 years for Flower Mound murder

 

44. Unknown

Age: 54
Nationality: Mexican
Cause of Death: Unknown
Incident Date: September 5, 2014
Incident Location: McAllen Station processing facility, TX

According to news stories, agents find immigrant hanging at McAllen Border Patrol station.

• Immigrant commits suicide in Border Patrol custody

 

43: Joaquin Tomas Cibrian

Age: 29
Nationality: Unknown
Cause of Death: Fatal Shooting (Use of force)
Incident Date: July 22, 2014
Incident Location: Edinburg, TX

Edinburgh police entered Cibrian's home and a shootout between law enforcement and Cibrian occurred. Edinburgh police called Border Patrol for assistance and Cibrian was killed in the shoot-out.

• July 22, 2014, use of force incident in Edinburg, TX, resulting in death

42. Jose Luis Arambula

Age: 31
Nationality: Unknown
Cause of Death: Fatal shooting (Use of force)
Incident Date: May 30, 2014
Incident Location: Green Valley, AZ

Arambula, of Tucson, was shot and killed in Green Valley Friday as he was fleeing Border Patrol agents. One of the agents, Daniel Marquez, fired multiple shots at Arambula, killing him, according to the Pima County Sheriff’s Department. The other agent, whose name was not released, did not fire at the suspect. Incident is being investigated by the Sheriff’s Department after the FBI declined to investigate.

CBP issued the following statement:
At approximately 2:30 p.m. MST Friday, Border Patrol agents on patrol attempted to conduct a stop on a suspicious vehicle on Interstate 19 (I-19) near Green Valley, Arizona.  The vehicle’s driver failed to yield to the agent’s emergency lights and sirens and continued driving.  At the intersection of Abrego Drive and Camino Encanto, the driver stopped the vehicle and fled on foot.  Agents pursued the driver and during the encounter, an agent discharged his service issued weapon, resulting in the death of the driver.  Bundles of marijuana were located in the subject’s vehicle.  The Border Patrol is fully cooperating with the Pima County Sheriff’s Office – led investigation.

• “Tucson man shot, killed by border agent in Green Valley is identified”

May 30, 2014 – CBP releases PERF report and new Use of Force Handbook

41. Name Not Released 

Age: Unknown
Nationality: Unknown
Cause of Death: Fatal shooting (Off-duty homicide)
Incident Date: March 10, 2014
Incident Location: Detroit, MI

An off-duty Border Patrol agent from California fatally shot a man in Detroit during a dispute that may have stemmed from a card game. According to news reports,  the shooting took place outside a home around  2 a.m. on the city’s east side. Deputy Chief Rodney Johnson says an argument between the agent’s cousin and another man moved outside the home and the other man brandished a gun from inside a vehicle. Johnson says the agent fired several shots at the other man, killing him.

• Police: Off-duty Border Patrol agent kills man. The Washington Times
• Detroit police: off-duty border patrol agent involved in fatal shooting on city’s east side

 

40. Jesús Flores-Cruz

Age: 41
Nationality: Mexican
Cause of Death: Fatal shooting (Use of force)
Incident Date: February 18, 2014
Incident Location: Otay Mountains, San Diego

According to San Diego Sheriff’s, two Border Patrol agents split up to cut off a group of three suspected undocumented immigrants. The two agents were out of sight of each other when one of the agents was struck in the face by a rock thrown by one of the suspects. Fearing for his safety, the agent fired his duty pistol at the man, striking him. The agent sustained minor injuries. Mexico condemns the shooting.

CBP issued the following statement:
At 6:30 a.m. PST Tuesday, a Border Patrol agent on patrol on the Otay Mountain in San Diego, Calif., was assaulted by three individuals and struck in the head with a rock.  The agent discharged his service-issued weapon, resulting in the death of one individual.  The agent apprehended the two other individuals. CBP is fully cooperating with the investigation conducted by the FBI and the San Diego Sheriff’s Department.

• Border Patrol Agent Fatally Shoots Suspect in Otay Area
• Officials: Agent kills man in rock attack
• Mexico condemns shooting by U.S. border agent

 

39. Gabriel Sanchez Velazquez

Age: Late 20s
Nationality: Mexican
Cause of Death: Fatal shooting (Use of force)
Incident Date: Jan. 16, 2014
Incident Location: Near Apache and Portal, AZ

Gabriel was part of a group Border Patrol was tracking. Border Patrol agents took two men into custody without incident, but a third fled and was eventually located “hiding under a mesquite bush”. The man reportedly struggled with the agent, attempting to grab the officer’s weapon. “Fearing for his personal safety and potential serious injury, the agent pulled his handgun and fired at the suspect.” The man was struck in the upper body area and “succumbed to his injuries at the scene”. The Cochise County Sheriff’s Office is leading the investigation.

• Mexico condemns killing of migrant in Arizona
• CCSO probes Border Patrol shooting death near Portal

 

38. Keith J. Martin

Age: 35
Nationality: U.S. 
Cause of Death: Fatal shooting (Off-duty homicide)
Incident Date: Jan. 2, 2014
Incident Location: Near Hondo, TX

An off-duty Border Patrol agent, Adam S. Garibay, 33, is suspected of killing his wife’s lover, Keith J. Martin, 35. After beating and tying up his wife in Corpus Christi, Garibay drove to Martin’s home on a private road 3 miles north of Hondo, TX, and allegedly shot him to death.

• Border patrol agent suspected in Hondo killing

2013

5 deaths

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37. Steven Keith

Age: 58
Nationality: Unknown
Cause of Death: Unknown (Medical)
Incident Date: Dec. 25, 2013
Incident Location: Campo Border Patrol Station near San Diego, CA

Keith was arrested Christmas Eve at a border checkpoint on Interstate 8 after Border Patrol agents allegedly discovered drug paraphernalia and trace amounts of methamphetamine inside his vehicle. San Diego Sector Border Patrol officials said he was arrested for illegal possession of drugs and intent to distribute three pounds of marijuana. He was then taken to a holding cell at the Campo Border Patrol station. Six hours after his arrest, he was dead. Border Patrol officials say he became incoherent and unresponsive while in the cell. Border Patrol emergency medics administered CPR to the man and called paramedics.

• San Diego Medical Examiner report released to Al Jazeera
• Border Patrol Criticized After Detainee Death

 

36. Cruz Marcelino Velazquez

Age: 16
Nationality: Mexican
Cause of Death: Drank highly concentrated liquid methamphetamine at the request of CBP (Use of force)
Incident Date: November 18, 2013
Incident Location: San Ysidro port of entry, CA

Velazquez died from drinking a highly concentrated liquid methamphetamine at the San Diego border crossing.

• Teen died after drinking liquid methamphetamine

 

35. Ernesto Gutierrez Cortez

Age: 38
Nationality: Unknown
Cause of Death: Fatal shooting (Use of force)
Incident Date: October 19, 2013
Incident Location: Campo, CA

A Border Patrol agent shot at the suspect vehicle when the driver made a U-turn and drove directly at him. Driver sustained non-life threatening injuries.

• Border Patrol Agent Shoots at Suspect in Campo

 

34. Mathew Simmons

Age: 27
Nationality: U.S.
Cause of Death: Fatal shooting (Use of force)
Incident Date: March 21, 2013
Incident Location: Otay Mesa, CA

Border Patrol agents drove up to a car on the side of the road that appeared to have been in an accident. One of the agents checked the car license plate and determined it was a stolen vehicle. Simmons pulled a handgun on the three agents, shooting one of them in the hip. The agents responded with gunfire and killed him.

• CBP Agents Shoot, Kill Carjacking Suspect at Border
• Local Man Killed In South Texas Shootout Identified

 

33. Name Not Released 

Age: 51
Nationality: U.S. 
Cause of Death: Unknown 
Incident Date: February, 16, 2013
Incident Location: San Ysidro port of entry, CA

A man crossed into the United States in a vehicle with two other US citizen relatives. They were directed to an inspection area and the man was handcuffed and walked into the security area. Once inside, the handcuffs were removed so the man could empty his pockets. As he placed his items on a counter, he collapsed. According to CBP, agents did not use any force on the suspect when taking him into custody or transporting him for processing. The cause of the man’s death is unknown.

• Deaths and Injuries in CBP encounters since January 2010  (including off-duty incidents and when CBP was acting as backup) (as of May 2016)

2012

17 deaths

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32. Margarito Lopez Morelos

Age: 19
Nationality: Guatemalan
Cause of Death: Fatal shooting (Use of force)
Incident Date: Dec. 2, 2012
Incident Location: Baboquivari Mountains, AZ

Margarito was shot and killed after a struggle with a Border Patrol agent.

• Border Patrol tight lipped about deadly shooting
• Probe into border shootings draws questions 
• Border Patrol Faces Little Accountability

 

31. José Antonio Elena Rodriguez

Age: 16
Nationality: Mexican
Cause of Death: Fatal shooting (Use of force)
Incident Date: Oct. 10, 2012
Incident Location: Nogales, Sonora

José was shot multiple times in the back and killed after reportedly throwing rocks at Border Patrol agents.

• Border Patrol shooting of Mexican teen draws condemnation
• Mexican teen killed by U.S. border agents was shot SEVEN times in the back after throwing rocks across border

30. Nicholas J. Ivie

Age: 30
Nationality: U.S.
Cause of Death: Fatal shooting (Use of force)
Incident Date: October 2, 2012
Location:  Near Bisbee, AZ

Nicholas was shot and killed in a friendly fire incident.

• FBI: BP Agent Ivie likely killed by friendly fire

29. Valeria Munique Tachiquin-Alvarado

Age: 32
Nationality: U.S.
Cause of Death: Fatal shooting (Use of force)
Incident Date: Sept. 28, 2012
Incident Location: Chula Vista, CA

A plain-clothed Border Patrol agent shot and killed Tachiquin in a residential suburb of San Diego.  The agent alleged she had struck him and was carrying him on top of her car prompting him to fire in self defense. Witnesses tell conflicting stories. The Border Patrol agent involved had a very troubling record when he worked as a sheriff’s deputy. The Imperial Valley Sheriff’s Department ultimately issued the agent a notice of termination for “unprofessional conduct, dishonesty, violation of or refusal to obey reasonable regulations, insubordination, violation of rules, incompetence and failure to follow proper procedures for arrest, search and seizure and treatment of persons in custody.”

• 10 News investigative series on agent Justin Tackett
• CBS News Reports on the Killing of Valeria Munique Tachiquin
• Claim filed against Border Patrol in woman’s death
• California Woman Valeria Alvarado Fatally Shot by Border Patrol Agent

 

28. Guillermo Arévalo Pedroza

Age: 36
Nationality: Mexican
Cause of Death: Fatal shooting (Use of force)
Incident Date: Sept. 3, 2012
Incident Location: Nuevo Laredo, Mexico

Guillermo was shot and killed while at a barbeque with his wife and daughters. Border Patrol agents claim they were under attack from rock throwers on the Mexican side of the Rio Grande. A video of the shooting didn’t show any rock throwing.

• Border Patrol incident still under investigation
• Mexican Girl Clutched Her Dying Father

Eyewitness video:

•  http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=sW68x20i4hM

 

27. Juan Pablo Perez Santillán

Age: 30
Nationality: Mexican
Cause of Death: Fatal shooting (Use of force)
Incident Date: July 7, 2012
Incident Location: Near Matamoros, Mexico

Juan Pablo was shot and killed while standing on the banks of the Rio Grande. Border Patrol claims Perez Santillán was throwing rocks; witnesses in Mexico say he was unarmed.

• Mexico Accuses Border Patrol of Shooting Underage Mexican
• ‘My brother … he’s dead’: Mourning after border shooting
• Dispara agente de la Patrulla Fronteriza y mata a mexicano
• Condenan muerte de mexicano a manos de agente fronterizo de EE.UU.
• U.S. Border Patrol Agent Fatally Shoots Man Across border

 

26. Charles Robinson

Age: 75
Nationality: U.S.
Cause of Death: Fatal shooting (Use of force)
Incident Date: June 23, 2012
Incident Location: Jackman, ME

Charles was shot and killed by Border Patrol agents during a confrontation at his residence. He was reportedly intoxicated and believed to be injured.

• Man killed, border agent wounded in Maine shooting
• Report of Attorney General William J. Schneider on the Use of Deadly Force by U.S. Border Patrol Agents in Jackman

25. Unknown

Age: Unknown
Nationality: Unknown
Cause of Death: Car chase (Vehicle collision)
Incident Date: April 11, 2012
Incident Location: Palmview, TX

Nine people died and seven were hospitalized in a crash involving Border Patrol agents and a suspected immigrant smuggler.

• Nine killed in crash involving suspected smuggler, border patrol

24. Unknown

Age: Unknown
Nationality: Unknown
Cause of Death: Car chase (Vehicle collision)
Incident Date: April 11, 2012
Incident Location: Palmview, TX

Nine people died and seven were hospitalized in a crash involving Border Patrol agents and a suspected immigrant smuggler.

• Nine killed in crash involving suspected smuggler, border patrol

23. Unknown

Age: Unknown
Nationality: Unknown
Cause of Death: Car chase (Vehicle collision)
Incident Date: April 11, 2012
Incident Location: Palmview, TX

Nine people died and seven were hospitalized in a crash involving Border Patrol agents and a suspected immigrant smuggler.

• Nine killed in crash involving suspected smuggler, border patrol

22. Unknown

Age: Unknown
Nationality: Unknown
Cause of Death: Car chase (Vehicle collision)
Incident Date: April 11, 2012
Incident Location: Palmview, TX

Nine people died and seven were hospitalized in a crash involving Border Patrol agents and a suspected immigrant smuggler.

• Nine killed in crash involving suspected smuggler, border patrol

21. Unknown

Age: Unknown
Nationality: Unknown
Cause of Death: Car chase (Vehicle collision)
Incident Date: April 11, 2012
Incident Location: Palmview, TX

Nine people died and seven were hospitalized in a crash involving Border Patrol agents and a suspected immigrant smuggler.

• Nine killed in crash involving suspected smuggler, border patrol

20. Unknown

Age: Unknown
Nationality: Unknown
Cause of Death: Car chase (Vehicle collision)
Incident Date: April 11, 2012
Incident Location: Palmview, TX

Nine people died and seven were hospitalized in a crash involving Border Patrol agents and a suspected immigrant smuggler.

• Nine killed in crash involving suspected smuggler, border patrol

19. Unknown

Age: Unknown
Nationality: Unknown
Cause of Death: Car chase (Vehicle collision)
Incident Date: April 11, 2012
Incident Location: Palmview, TX

Nine people died and seven were hospitalized in a crash involving Border Patrol agents and a suspected immigrant smuggler.

• Nine killed in crash involving suspected smuggler, border patrol

18. Unknown

Age: Unknown
Nationality: Unknown
Cause of Death: Car chase (Vehicle collision)
Incident Date: April 11, 2012
Incident Location: Palmview, TX

Nine people died and seven were hospitalized in a crash involving Border Patrol agents and a suspected immigrant smuggler.

• Nine killed in crash involving suspected smuggler, border patrol

17. Unknown

Age: Unknown
Nationality: Unknown
Cause of Death: Car chase (Vehicle collision)
Incident Date: April 11, 2012
Incident Location: Palmview, TX

Nine people died and seven were hospitalized in a crash involving Border Patrol agents and a suspected smuggler.

• Nine killed in crash involving suspected smuggler, border patrol

16. Alexander Arthur Martin

Age: 34
Nationality: U.S.
Cause of death: Death in vehicle explosion (Use of force)
Incident Date: March 15, 2012
Incident Location: Near Campo, CA

Alexander died in a car explosion that may have been caused by Border Patrol tasers. Border Patrol agents chased Martin’s car after he began driving the wrong way down the highway.

• Did border agent’s Taser spark deadly fire?
• Car Explosion Kills 1, Sends 1 BP Agent To Hospital
• Man Killed Near Old Buckman Springs Road ID’d
• Border Explosion Death Investigated as Homicide

2011

9 deaths

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15. Byron Sosa Orellana

Age: 28
Nationality: Guatemalan
Cause of Death: Fatal shooting (Use of force)
Incident Date: December 6, 2011
Incident Location: Near Sells, AZ

Byron was shot and killed after allegedly assaulting an agent and police dog.

• Border Patrol agent kills border-crosser in confrontation
• AZ Border agent cleared in fatal shooting
• Man Shot by Border Patrol in Arizona is Identified

 

14. Gerardo Rico Lozano

Age: 20
Nationality: Mexican
Cause of Death: Fatal shooting (Use of force)
Incident Date: November 3, 2011
Incident Location: Near Corpus Christi, TX

Gerardo was shot and killed after allegedly driving towards Border Patrol agents who pulled over his vehicle.

• One dead in Border Patrol shooting
• Man killed by Border Patrol agent identified

 

13. Omar Olivares

Age: 28
Nationality: Unknown
Cause of Death: Fatal shooting (Off-duty homicide)
Incident Date: Sept. 15, 2011
Incident Location: Eagle Pass, TX

An off-duty agent got into a shootout with his wife’s cousin, who was killed at the scene.  The Border Patrol agent died later at the Ft. Duncan Medical Center. It is unknown how the shooting started. According to EPPD approx. 36-38 rounds were shot by both individuals. Olivares was shot approximately four times by the agent and the agent was shot seven times.

•  Force at the Border

 

12. Jose Alfredo Yañez Reyes

Age: 40
Nationality: Mexican
Cause of Death: Fatal shooting (Use of force)
Incident Date: June 21, 2011
Incident Location: Tijuana, Mexico

José Alfredo was shot and killed while suspected of attempting to cross the border irregularly. Agents claim suspected border crossers were throwing rocks; it’s unclear if he was involved in the rock throwing.

• Agent’s shot kills rock thrower at border fence
• Border shooting reignites use of force debate
• Incident that ended with agent fatally shooting man restarts debate about patrol’s response to ‘rocking’
• Police Investigate Officer-Involved Shooting at the Border
• ACLU Calls for Probe in Border Shooting

 

11. Amado Rodriguez

Age: 46
Nationality: Unknown, born in Sinaloa, Mexico
Cause of Death: Fatal shooting (Use of force)
Incident Date: April 18, 2011
Incident Location: Fabens, TX

The Fabens Border Patrol Station was contacted by the El Paso Sheriff’s Office to provide backup for El Paso Sheriff’s deputies on scene. The El Paso Sheriff’s Office SWAT team also arrived on the scene. The El Paso Sheriff’s Department has conducted several investigations into the shooting, including an Internal Affairs investigation. The results of the investigations have not been released, but family members claimed in a new story that  Rodriguez, who has been in a wheelchair since age 17, was improperly shot by law enforcement agents responding to the scene.

• Force at the Border
• Niece of man slain in Fabens: He was unarmed

 

10. Carlos Lamadrid

Age: 19
Nationality: U.S.
Cause of Death: Fatal shooting (Use of force)
Incident Date: March 21, 2011
Incident Location: Douglas, AZ

Carlos was shot 3 times in the back and killed by a Border Patrol agent while fleeing across the border into Mexico, reportedly transporting marijuana. The agent was allegedly under attack by an individual throwing rocks  when he fired.

• Border agent shoots, kills man in Douglas
• Carlos Lamadrid’s Mother, 19-Year-Old Killed By Border Patrol, Sues
• Federal Officials Close the Investigation into the Death of Carlos LaMadrid 
• LaMadrid shot three times in back
• CASE closed by DOJ: http://www.justice.gov/opa/pr/2013/August/13-crt-907.html
• Judge: Shooting near Douglas by Border Patrol Justified

 

9. Alex Martinez

Age: 30
Nationality: U.S.
Cause of Death: Fatal shooting (Use of force)
Incident Date: Feb. 27, 2011
Incident Location: Whatcom County, WA

Alex was shot and killed by Border Patrol agents while allegedly swinging a hammer and smashing windows in his mobile home. Martinez had a history of mental problems.His brother says Martinez complied with commands to step out of the house. What officers believed to be a gun in his possession was in fact a flashlight.

• Deputy-Border Agent Shoots Man
• Border Patrol Kill Man Attacking a Deputy with a Hammer in Washington State
• Man killed in Whatcom County deputy-involved shooting

 

8. Roberto Pérez Pérez

Age: 63
Nationality: Mexican
Cause of Death: Lack of medical care after being beaten  (Medical)
Incident Date: January 13, 2011
Incident Location: San Diego, CA

Roberto was beaten while in detention for trying to re-enter the U.S. and died due to lack of proper medical care.

• Fallece mexicano que denunció una golpiza
• Deadly patrols: Challenges to Prosecution

 

7. Ramses Barron Torres

Age: 17
Nationality: Mexican
Cause of Death: Fatal shooting (Use of force)
Incident Date: Jan. 5, 2011
Incident Location: Nogales, Mexico

Ramses was shot and killed after allegedly throwing rocks at Border Patrol agents. Witnesses deny he threw rocks. DOJ stated in their press release closing their investigation that they reviewed surveillance videos, but videos have not been released publicly.

• More accounts emerge following deadly border shooting
• Border shooting now a federal case in Mexico
• One year later, deadly shooting still under federal investigation
• Federal Officials Close the Investigation into the Death of Ramses Barron-Torres 
• Mexico official: Teen was fatally shot at border
• CASE closed by DOJ: http://www.justice.gov/opa/pr/2013/August/13-crt-908.html

2010

6 deaths

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6. Juan Mendez, Jr.

Age: 18
Nationality: Unknown
Cause of Death: Fatal shooting (Use of force)
Incident Date: Oct. 5, 2010
Incident Location: Eagle Pass, TX

Juan was shot in the back twice and killed by a Border Patrol agent after being involved in a car chase. Mendez was stopped by the officer for driving with a “suspicious load” and took off running; he briefly struggled with the agent before the shooting.

• Deputy: Border agent kills unarmed suspect
• Interview with Juan Mendez Sr.
• OIG report – page 23 ()
• Unarmed Suspect Shot in Eagle Pass
• 18 year old Eagle Passan shot and killed by U.S. Border Patrol

 

5. Sergio Adrian Hernandez-Guereca

Age: 15
Nationality: Mexican
Cause of Death: Fatal shooting (Use of force)
Incident Date: June 7, 2010
Incident Location:  El Paso, TX

Sergio was shot and killed by a Border Patrol agent after a group of suspected undocumented immigrants reportedly threw rocks at agents at an international bridge. Guereca was on Mexican soil; the agent was 12 yards from the border on the U.S. side.

• Family of Mexican teen killed by border agent sues U.S.
• Border Shooting Strains Tensions With Mexico
• Cell Phone Video of Incident
• Mexican Border Shooting
• Case closed by DOJ

Eyewitness video:

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7wI2Q1XikLw

 

4. Anastasio Hernandez Rojas

Age: 42
Nationality: Mexican, San Diego resident since age 18
Cause of Death: Tortured to death (Use of force)
Incident Date: May 28, 2010
Incident Location: San Diego, CA

Longtime San Diego resident; tortured to death by CBP officers at a Border Patrol station as he resisted being deported.

• Crossing the Line at the Border
• Update: Crossing the line
• Calls For Justice In Tasing Death At The Hands Of Border Agents
• San Diego Police Investigate the Death of a Mexican Man Resisting Deportation

Eyewitness videos:

• http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2y5gpc5Bdbs#t=32
• http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=eJGI1FR3MPA

 

3. Neil Begin

Age: 54
Nationality: U.S.
Cause of Death: Fatal shooting (Use of force)
Incident Date: April 23, 2010
Incident Location: Near Van Buren, ME

Border Patrol agent, Robert Kipler, assigned to the Van Buren Station of the Houlton Sector, responded to a residence located just south of Van Buren, to back up a Maine State Trooper investigating an ongoing domestic dispute. Agents entered the residence with the State Trooper and confronted the subject [who] appeared to be holding a bolt-action rifle. The State Trooper and BP agent discharged their weapons at the subject. The subject was struck by some of the rounds fired, and collapsed to the floor. EMS arrived and transported the subject to a local hospital for emergency treatment and later transported by life-flight to a hospital in Bangor, Maine. The subject died the next morning. The Maine State Attorney General’s report later found that Agent Robert Kipler fired 14 shots, and Kipler fired the fatal shot. The Attorney General also found the shooting to be justified.

• Database on Force at the Border
• State trooper, Border Patrol agent justified in fatal shooting

 

2. Victor Santillan de la Cruz

Age: 36
Nationality: Mexican
Cause of Death: Fatal Shooting (Use of Force)
Incident Date: March 31, 2010
Incident Location: Laredo, TX

Victor was shot and killed during a struggle with a Border Patrol agent.

• Man Shot At Border Had History Of Illegal Entry
• Man shot by Border Patrol agent identified
• OIG report – page 19

 

1. Jorge A. Solis-Palma

Age: 28
Nationality: Mexican
Cause of Death: Fatal shooting  (Use of Force)
Incident Date: Jan. 4, 2010
Incident Location: Douglas, AZ

Jorge was shot and killed by a Border Patrol agent after reportedly throwing a rock and injuring an agent and his dog. Incident was captured on a surveillance camera.

• Border Patrol Cameras Capture Parts of Shooting Incident; Footage counters statement