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  4. Rio Grande Valley Border Patrol Agents rescue two children

Rio Grande Valley Border Patrol Agents rescue two children

Release Date
Tue, 08/30/2016

EDINBURG, Texas — U.S. Border Patrol agents assigned to the Weslaco Station rescued two children who suffered from heat injuries on Monday afternoon.

Weslaco agents located a group of immigrants near Hidalgo, Texas.  In the group was an unaccompanied nine year old boy who was having trouble breathing and a five month old baby who appeared to be suffering from a heat related illness as well.  Both children were transported by ambulance to local hospitals. 

The five month old infant, who was accompanied by his mother, was treated and released from the hospital. The unaccompanied nine year old remains in the hospital for further treatment.

“There are the horrifying dynamics that come with crossing the border into the United States and these vulnerable children, some too young to even walk or talk are risking their lives without a parent or guardian. It’s sad and entering illegally is extremely dangerous,” says Acting Patrol Agent in Charge Jesse Jimenez.  The high humidity and consistent heat, combined with rugged terrain, can rapidly cause an individual to become distressed and die from dehydration, exertion or weather-related illnesses. Immigrants are urged not to put their safety at risk by illegally entering the United States or attempting to circumvent a checkpoint.

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

Please visit www.cbp.gov to view additional news releases and other information pertaining to U.S. Customs and Border Protection.

Last Modified: Feb 03, 2021