U.S. Border Patrol agents rescued eleven people stranded in the Rio Grande River.
“Border Patrol agents continue to warn immigrants not to attempt to cross the Rio Grande River illegally,”said Del Rio Sector Chief Patrol Agent Raul L. Ortiz.“On this occasion, help arrived in time to save the lives of these individuals. Unfortunately, not every person attempting to illegally cross the Rio Grande River is so lucky.”
The eleven were from Honduras and El Salvador, including five children, after the group attempted to wade across the Rio Grande River south of Del Rio. The group entered the river shortly after midnight. Upon reaching an island in the river, the group found deep, fast-flowing water between them and the northern bank of the Rio Grande River. Responding agents cautioned the group to remain where they were and not to attempt the cross the dangerous river. Agents stayed in the area throughout the night, monitoring the safety of the group. After daylight, Border Patrol Search Trauma and Rescue operators maneuvered a vessel to the group and brought them safely to shore. The group consisted of six adults and five children, ranging in age from 3 to 11.
Photo: U.S. Customs and Border Protection