Border Patrol Agents rescue four migrants trying to cross American Canal

U.S. Border Patrol Agents saved the lives of four undocumented immigrants trying to enter the U.S. illegally via the American Canal.

The rescue happened at midnight Wednesday, officials said.

U.S. Border Patrol camera operators were watching a group of seven people illegally cross into the United States near Downtown El Paso. The group then entered the American Canal, approximately three miles east of the Bridge of the Americas Port of Entry.

“Due to strong undercurrents, the canal system represents the biggest danger immigrants face when attempting to enter the U.S. illegally in the El Paso area,” officials said.

When agents U.S. Border Patrol agents responded to the area, they reportedly saw three of the migrants climb out of the south side of the canal and run back into Mexico. The four remaining migrants were left behind and struggled to stay afloat, officials said.

The Border Patrol agents immediately took action and worked together to pull the four people from the canal utilizing rescue ropes.

Officials said all four of the migrants were assessed and none required further medical attention. The group was comprised of three adult males and one juvenile, all from Mexico. The three adults will be facing criminal prosecution while the juvenile will be repatriated to Mexico with assistance from Mexican Government officials, officials said.

During fiscal year 2018, U.S. Border Patrol Agents in the El Paso Sector have rescued 25 immigrants in distress and have witnessed zero immigrant deaths.

In fiscal year 2017, eight migrants lost their lives trying to enter the US illegally via the canal.