High-Speed Chase Near Chavez Elementary Triggers Lockdown, 6 Arrested

High-Speed Chase Near Chavez Elementary Triggers Lockdown, 6 Arrested

A high-speed pursuit involving Border Patrol agents, Texas DPS, and Pharr Police led to the temporary lockdown of Chavez Elementary School in Salinas on Monday morning. Authorities were chasing a suspect vehicle believed to be involved in human smuggling, which ultimately came to a stop near the school campus.

The incident occurred around 8:00 a.m., just as students were arriving for the day. Six individuals were apprehended at the scene, while the driver attempted to flee on foot near the school.

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Lockdown Triggered to Ensure Safety

Upon discovering that the foot pursuit was unfolding dangerously close to Chavez Elementary, officials took immediate action.

“All proper notifications were made to the school to ensure the safety of our children,” stated a Border Patrol representative.

In response, Pharr-San Juan-Alamo Independent School District (PSJA ISD) placed Chavez Elementary and nearby campuses under temporary lockdown while officers secured the area.

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Suspect Apprehensions and Search Efforts

Border Patrol agents, with assistance from DPS and local police, quickly moved in to secure the suspects. Six individuals were taken into custody, and agents continued a brief ground search for the driver, who had abandoned the vehicle and escaped on foot.

There were no reported injuries, and the school district confirmed that students and staff remained safe throughout the event.

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DPS Offers Guidance to Parents

In a statement following the incident, Texas DPS Lieutenant Chris Olivarez urged parents to remain calm during critical incidents such as these.

“It’s a normal, rational reaction for parents to want to rush to check on their child,” Olivarez said. “But in these cases, it’s vital to allow law enforcement to do their job. We’re there to secure the school and protect everyone inside.”

He further advised that if you’re driving and encounter a high-speed chase, motorists should move over, reduce speed, and give officers as much room as possible.

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School District Response and Safety Measures

PSJA ISD officials stated that swift communication and coordination with law enforcement were key to ensuring campus safety.

“Alongside authorities, we were able to ensure the safety of students and staff at both Chavez Elementary and neighboring campuses,” the district confirmed.

With school lockdowns on the rise due to pursuits and threats near campuses, the district continues to work closely with public safety agencies to refine emergency protocols.

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Official Resources

For updates and alerts, visit:

• Pharr-San Juan-Alamo ISD
• Texas Department of Public Safety
• U.S. Customs and Border Protection