Crews rescue immigrants from fast-flowing canal
Times staff
Article Launched: 05/07/2008 04:21:14 AM MDT


El Paso Fire Department rescue crews and Border Patrol agents pulled several people from a canal near the Rio Grande early this morning, according to reports from the scene.
The incident happened at about 3:15 a.m. about a mile east of Yarbrough along the Cesar Chavez Highway in Southeast El Paso.

According to emergency dispatch reports, as many as eight victims were pulled from the canal and were given first aid at the scene.

However, no serious injuries were reported.

The victims were believed to be illegal immigrants attempting to cross the border into the U.S. They were taken to the Ysleta Port of Entry for questioning.

The Rio Grande and the adjoining system of canals are currently running full due to an increased flow from upstream dams.

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