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  4. Rio Grande Valley Border Patrol rescues woman in distress

Rio Grande Valley Border Patrol rescues woman in distress

Release Date
Thu, 07/21/2016

HIDALGO, Texas – U.S. Border Patrol agents working near Hidalgo, Texas rescued a woman from drowning in the Rio Grande on Tuesday morning. 

At approximately 3 a.m., Weslaco agents observed eight subjects jump in the Rio Grande near Hidalgo.  As they got closer, the agents noticed that one of the subjects, a women, was having difficulties staying afloat after swimming away from the riverbank.  The woman began to cry for help but her suspected smugglers ignored her.  The agents quickly responded and threw a rope towards the woman and pulled her to safety.  The woman was then offered medical assistance.   

“This young woman’s life was saved thanks to the actions agents took today,” said Chief Patrol Agent Manuel Padilla Jr. “We will count on the community and the media to bring awareness to the inhumane acts of human smugglers who continually place migrant’s lives in danger.”

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.

Last Modified: Feb 03, 2021