Feds: Immigrants still attempt to cross swollen Rio Grande

HIDALGO — Immigrants continue to try and illegally cross the swift Rio Grande, despite the widespread flooding from Hurricane Alex that has affected the region.

In Mission alone, firefighters said they have performed about 18 rescues in recent weeks, including one near La Lomita Mission late Sunday morning. 

U.S. Border Patrol agents spotted another group led by a coyote – a human smuggler -- attempting to cross the river in an inflatable raft Saturday. But the migrants turned around upon spotting agents on the river bank.

"While it is extremely dangerous to cross the river under normal conditions, this is a clear example of the callous disregard for human life that smugglers display on a regular basis," the agency said in a statement. 

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Jared Taylor covers law enforcement and general assignments for The Monitor. You can reach him at (956) 683-4439.