Volunteers collecting essential supplies through noon tomorrow at East Old 83 donation site
Smuggler Nabbed: Rio Grande Jump Fails After Fiery Chase Ends in Arrest
Texas DPS releases dramatic footage of high-speed pursuit; suspect rescued after river jump, five undocumented immigrants found in vehicle.
Published April 24 2025
Smuggler Nabbed: Rio Grande Jump Fails After Fiery Chase Ends in Arrest
DPS Video Shows Harrowing Pursuit Through South Texas Roads
A suspected human smuggler’s desperate attempt to escape justice ended in the waters of the Rio Grande, following a chaotic high-speed chase through South Texas. The Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) released dashcam footage capturing the moment the suspect crashed into multiple vehicles before abandoning his car and leaping into the river in an effort to flee to Mexico.
But the escape attempt failed. DPS troopers quickly pulled the suspect from the river and took him into custody, crediting their swift action to Operation Lone Star — the state’s multi-agency initiative targeting border crime and smuggling operations.
Five Migrants Rescued from Crashed Vehicle
Inside the suspect’s vehicle, authorities found five undocumented immigrants, including at least one minor, highlighting the dangerous conditions that often surround human smuggling. DPS officials emphasized the risk to both the individuals being smuggled and the general public when reckless drivers attempt to evade law enforcement.
The suspect, whose name has not yet been released, now faces felony charges related to human smuggling, with additional charges possible due to the vehicular collisions.
Operation Lone Star: A Coordinated Response
Launched in 2021, Operation Lone Star brings together resources from the Texas DPS, Texas National Guard, and other local law enforcement agencies to combat illegal border activity, including human smuggling, drug trafficking, and gang operations. This latest arrest adds to the operation’s growing list of interdictions and detentions.
Officials credit the program with disrupting transnational criminal networks that exploit vulnerable migrants for profit and often endanger entire communities through high-speed pursuits and violent encounters.
Helpful Links and Contact Information
- DPS Crime Tips Hotline: 📞 1-800-252-TIPS (8477)
To report suspicious activity related to human smuggling or border crimes, contact DPS anonymously via their hotline.
Stories You May Like
Meth Bust: $1.7 Million Seized at Rio Grande Bridge in Massive Drug Haul
Authorities intercept 191 pounds of meth hidden in a Kia Sorento, arresting a 26-year-old driver.
Driscoll Children’s Hospital Reaches 5,000 Surgeries in Just Over a Year
The Rio Grande Valley’s only freestanding children’s hospital celebrates a major achievement, highlighting its vital role in local pediatric healthcare.
Manhunt: Urgent Search for Progreso Teen Wanted in Child Assault Case
Authorities urge potential victims to come forward as they intensify search for Joaquin Emmanuel Davila.
Sex Offender Alert: Sheriff Seeks Public’s Help to Locate Fugitive in Donna
Authorities urge community to assist in locating Alejandro Guerra, a wanted sex offender, last seen in Donna.
Theft Suspect: Urgent Manhunt for Weslaco’s Most Wanted
Waseca Police Seek Public’s Help to Locate 25-Year-Old Theft Suspect
Latest Stories
Donation Effort Underway in Pharr to Help Flood Victims
Volunteers collecting essential supplies through noon tomorrow at East Old 83 donation site
Driscoll Children’s Hospital Reaches 5,000 Surgeries in Just Over a Year
The Rio Grande Valley’s only freestanding children’s hospital celebrates a major achievement, highlighting its vital role in local pediatric healthcare.
Manhunt: Urgent Search for Progreso Teen Wanted in Child Assault Case
Authorities urge potential victims to come forward as they intensify search for Joaquin Emmanuel Davila.
Sex Offender Alert: Sheriff Seeks Public’s Help to Locate Fugitive in Donna
Authorities urge community to assist in locating Alejandro Guerra, a wanted sex offender, last seen in Donna.
Theft Suspect: Urgent Manhunt for Weslaco’s Most Wanted
Waseca Police Seek Public’s Help to Locate 25-Year-Old Theft Suspect
Human Smuggling Bust: High-Speed Chase Ends in McAllen Capture
A dramatic pursuit through McAllen streets highlights ongoing human smuggling challenges at the U.S. border.
Harlingen Man Charged with Displaying Porn to Child
Josh Allen Johnson faces serious charges and a $7,500 bond after allegedly showing harmful material to a minor.
More From Fox Rio Grande Valley
Pharr’s New Year Celebration: Spectacular Ball Drop to Usher in 2025
Downtown Pharr to host grand end-of-year party featuring food, entertainment, and an iconic ball drop
Jimmy Carter: From Peanut Farmer to Peacemaker, the Legacy of the 39th US President
Former President Jimmy Carter, who brokered historic peace talks and won a Nobel Prize, dies at 100
Unveiling Health Risks: Cooking Oils, Urinary Habits, and Raw Milk
New studies highlight potential health risks linked to cooking oils, holding in urine, and consuming raw milk.
Human Smuggling Crisis in the Rio Grande Valley: A Deeper Look
The Texas DPS takes decisive action against human smuggling across the Rio Grande Valley, with penalties intensifying for those involved.
Knapp Medical Center Unveils Advanced DaVinci XI Robotic Surgical System
Newly introduced robotic surgical system promises enhanced patient safety and minimized pain during surgeries.
Safe Halloween: Authorities Share Tips for a Secure Celebration
Drivers and parents receive safety advice for Halloween from local authorities
More From Fox Rio Grande Valley
Donation Effort Underway in Pharr to Help Flood Victims
Volunteers collecting essential supplies through noon tomorrow at East Old 83 donation site
A Feast for the Senses: Dave’s Hot Chicken Brings Art and Flavor to Edinburg
Dave’s Hot Chicken has landed in Edinburg, bringing not just bold flavors but a vibrant space where street art and sizzling spice come together for a feast of the senses.
Donation Effort Underway in Pharr to Help Flood Victims
Volunteers collecting essential supplies through noon tomorrow at East Old 83 donation site
McAllen Crews Begin Trash and Debris Collection
City offering free compostable bags; residents urged to place debris curbside and be patient.
School Threats: Arrest Shocks Community as Authorities Crack Down
Unrelated school threats in Hidalgo and Cameron counties prompt swift police actions and raise awareness on student safety.
High School Coach Faces $150K Bond Over Student Relationship
Rivera Early College High School coach charged amid ongoing investigation by Cameron County District Attorney’s Office.
Fire Erupts in Weslaco: Emergency Crews Mobilize to Contain Blaze
Elsa and Weslaco Fire Departments, along with Hidalgo County Sheriff’s Office, respond swiftly to San Pedro Street incident.
Mustang Driver Hospitalized After Collision with DPS Unit in Edinburg
A dramatic crash at a busy Edinburg intersection raises questions about road safety and precautionary measures.
Promoted