Suspected members of a Mexican cartel were filmed opening fire on U.S. Border Patrol agents near the southern border on Monday, during an apparent attempt by a group of migrants to enter the United States illegally, according to authorities.
The incident took place at approximately 1:30 p.m. near Fronton, Texas, Customs and Border Protection stated in a brief announcement that did not disclose further details.
As the migrants attempted to cross the Rio Grande, the gunmen opened fire, Fox News reported, citing law enforcement sources.
In response, Border Patrol agents returned fire, as confirmed by the Texas Department of Public Safety.
“DPS responded to assist the US Border Patrol after agents received gunfire from cartel members in Mexico while patrolling in Fronton,” Lt. Chris Olivarez posted on X, along with videos showing heavily armed men.
“DPS drone operators captured the gunmen fleeing Mexico due to military presence and seeking refuge on an island between the US and Mexico,” Olivarez added.
Drone footage revealed at least four armed individuals walking along the riverbank and attempting to hide in nearby shrubs.
Several moments in the video showed the gunmen aiming their weapons directly at the drone.
“The State of Texas will continue to monitor the area closely and use every resource available to prevent transnational threats to our law enforcement partners and the homeland,” Olivarez stated.
The area where the exchange occurred remains under investigation, with the Customs and Border Protection Office of Professional Responsibility, DHS Office of Inspector General, FBI, and Texas Department of Public Safety all involved in the case, CBP announced later on Monday.
No injuries were reported, officials said.
Authorities noted that the group of migrants attempting to cross the border during the shooting did not succeed in entering the U.S.
This incident comes as President Trump emphasizes tougher measures to curb illegal immigration and strengthen border security, key priorities during the early days of his second term.
Just last week, U.S. officials announced plans for the Pentagon to deploy up to 1,500 active-duty troops to the southern border, augmenting the roughly 2,200 National Guard and Reserve personnel already stationed there.
Reports indicated that Trump is also considering sending an additional 10,000 troops to further secure the border.
Meanwhile, Immigration and Customs Enforcement reported 1,179 arrests and issued 853 immigration detainers on Monday, following 956 arrests and 554 detainers issued the previous day.
