An illegal alien was shot dead during a drug smuggling operation intercepted by U.S. Border Patrol (USBP) in Texas, according to reports.
The incident unfolded on Thursday afternoon in Starr County.
USBP Special Operations Detachment agents reportedly confronted suspects moving drugs from Mexico across the Rio Grande and a “struggle” ensued.
An agent discharged his firearm, apparently striking one of the suspects, who later died.
NEW: Multiple law enforcement agencies are responding to a shooting involving the Border Patrol.
Starr County Sheriff's Office is assisting following an incident that occurred earlier today along the riverbank between Rio Grande City and Roma, TX. Authorities say a struggle… pic.twitter.com/bgdzWV7r8f
— Wid Lyman (@Wid_Lyman) December 12, 2025
“One illegal immigrant was pronounced deceased at a local hospital. The agent was not injured,” NewsNation correspondent Ali Bradley reports, citing law enforcement sources.
#BREAKING Sources confirm to me that a fight ensued after smugglers from Mexico moved a hard narcotics load across the river and an SOD (Special Operations Detachment) agent tried to interdict—That’s when the agent discharged his firearm.
One illegal immigrant was pronounced… https://t.co/SarZ1Lgwye
— Ali Bradley (@AliBradleyTV) December 12, 2025
The Texas Department of Public Safety has confirmed that an officer-involved shooting is currently being investigated by the Texas Rangers.
“During the incident, one suspect was shot and later pronounced deceased at Starr County Memorial Hospital,” TxDPS spokesman Lt. Chris Olivarez explained in a brief statement.
OFFICIAL STATEMENT
The Texas Department of Public Safety can confirm that the Texas Rangers are investigating an officer-involved shooting involving the U.S. Border Patrol in Starr County.
During the incident, one suspect was shot and later pronounced deceased at Starr County…
— Chris Olivarez (@LtChrisOlivarez) December 12, 2025
The Starr County Sheriff’s Office said deputies are securing the scene and asked the public to avoid the area.
Information remains limited at this time.
Border Hawk will monitor the situation for updates.
