Suspected Drug Mule Collapses & Dies at Border Crossing

WESLACO, TX – On April 26, 2023, at approximately 3:12 p.m., a male traveler, later identified as a U.S. citizen, applied for entry into the United States via the pedestrian lanes at the Progresso Port of Entry and was inspected by a Customs and Border Protection Officer. The man was referred to secondary inspection by the officer due to a computer-generated referral; he collapsed to the floor while walking to secondary inspection.

Responding officers assessed the man, determined he did not have a pulse and began cardiopulmonary resuscitation, administered Narcan and used an automated external defibrillator. Officers then requested that emergency medical services be dispatched to the port of entry. EMS arrived and transported the man to the Knapp Medical Center in Weslaco, Texas, at approximately 3:32 p.m.

 The man was declared deceased by Knapp Medical Center personnel at approximately 4:15 p.m. An autopsy is pending with the Hidalgo County Medical Examiner and Coroner.

 This incident is being investigated by the Hidalgo County Sheriff’s Office and is under review by CBP's Office of Professional Responsibility. The Department of Homeland Security's Office of Inspector General was also notified.