Eagle Pass, Texas – The Department of Homeland Security (DHS) and a Texas congressman reported over the weekend that an adult migrant and two children drowned in an area at the southern border where Texas was blocking Border Patrol entry. However, Texas authorities claim they thoroughly investigated the incident and did not witness any distressed migrants.
The situation unfolded in Shelby Park, which Texas had taken control of earlier in the week along the Rio Grande River. DHS stated that Border Patrol agents were physically prevented by Texas officials from entering the area and responding to a distress call from the Mexican government. Texas Military Department elaborated on their decision, stating it was to prepare for future illegal immigrant surges and prevent organizations that facilitate crossings.
The White House accused Texas Governor Greg Abbott of attempting to politicize the border and criticized his policies as cruel, dangerous, and inhumane. They called for Texas to stop interfering with Border Patrol operations and enforcement of U.S. law. Meanwhile, Customs and Border Protection (CBP) expressed sadness over the deaths and highlighted concerns about actions that hinder Border Patrol from performing their crucial missions.
Representative Henry Cuellar, a Democrat from Texas, released a statement about the incident, explaining that Border Patrol tried to contact Texas officials when they learned of six distressed migrants but were unsuccessful. Cuellar emphasized the need for cooperation between the state and federal government on border security matters.
The tensions between Texas and the federal government have been escalating, with ongoing lawsuits and disputes over border policies and enforcement. Texas Military Department confirmed that while they searched the river with lights and night vision goggles, no distressed migrants were observed. They reported that Mexican authorities were already responding to the incident from the other side of the river.
Cuellar reinforced the importance of state and federal agencies collaborating instead of excluding each other. He emphasized the need to minimize politics and focus on cooperation for effective border security.
In conclusion, a tragic incident occurred at the southern border where an adult migrant and two children drowned. The Department of Homeland Security and Texas have conflicting narratives, with Texas authorities claiming a thorough investigation found no distressed migrants. The incident further highlights the ongoing tensions between Texas and the federal government over border policies and enforcement. The importance of cooperation between state and federal agencies in addressing border security challenges is underscored.