Immigrants found hidden in train car in Webb County

By César Rodriguez, LMTonline.com / Laredo Morning Times Updated 9:13 am CDT, Tuesday, September 1, 2020

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U.S. Border Patrol agents said they found more than 20 people inside a grain hopper train car near Bruni. All were determined to be immigrants who had crossed the border illegally.


U.S. Border Patrol agents rescued several individuals hidden inside a grain hopper train car as they attempted to further enter the country near Bruni, authorities said.

Early Saturday, the railroad company notified agents from the Hebbronville Station about several people illegally traveling in a cargo train. Agents said they responded and located 23 individuals in a grain hopper train car and noticed that none were wearing any personal protective equipment in close quarters.

Two juveniles were determined to be U.S. citizens and the remaining 21 were identified as immigrants from the countries of Mexico, Honduras, Ecuador, Cuba, and Guatemala who had crossed the border illegally.

Border Patrol said this dangerous method of illegal furtherance into the United States is strongly discouraged as it often results in serious injury or death.

“Smugglers put 21 people inside of a grain hopper, a confined and extremely dangerous space, and are now facing felony prosecution. This case highlights how careless smugglers are with people’s lives. They are willing to put multiple lives at risk to make a profit,” said Laredo Sector Chief Patrol Agent Matthew J. Hudak.

To report suspicious activity such as human or drug smuggling, download the “USBP Laredo Sector” app or contact the Laredo Sector Border Patrol toll free at 1-800-343-1994.

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