UNITED STATES—A U.S. Customs and Border Patrol agent Felix Chavez was assaulted while on duty on Monday, March 25.
CBP agents were tracking suspected illegal immigrants near the South Eagle Pass Station where Sector Chief Patrol Agent Chavez reported that his agents were able to apprehend one of the individuals when the rest jumped into the Rio Grande River. While in the water, those fleeing the agents began throwing rocks striking Chavez in the face.
He received first aid treatment on the scene, but did not require further medical attention. The immigrants swam to the other side of the river into Mexico.
On Wednesday, March 27, U.S. Customs and Border Protection Commissioner, Kevin K. Mc Aleenan held a press conference to discuss the increase in illegal immigrant crossings along the southwest border.
“CBP is facing an unprecedented humanitarian and border security crisis all along the Southwest border,” said McAleenan. “And nowhere has that crisis manifested more acutely than here in El Paso Sector. Here in El Paso, we have almost 3,500 migrants in custody this morning, in facilities designed for many fewer. We had over 1,000 apprehensions on Monday. The vast majority are families from Central America,” he added.
“CBP will do everything possible to manage this crisis and protect the most vulnerable in this process. The men and women at CBP are serving with honor and vigilance despite the stark challenge,” said McAleenan.
