In the first 40 days of Fiscal Year 2025, nearly 50 migrants deaths have been reported along the U.S.-Mexico border, drawing attention to the dangerous conditions migrants face as they attempt to cross into the United States. With cartels tightening their control over the routes and the Texas National Guard ramping up security efforts in preparation for potential surges, the crisis at the border has become an increasingly complex issue for both migrants and U.S. authorities.
Since October 1, 2024, nearly 50 migrants have tragically lost their lives while attempting to cross the U.S.-Mexico border. The deaths underscore the perilous nature of these crossings, which often involve treacherous terrain, extreme weather conditions, and a growing threat of violence from criminal organizations. Paul Perez, President of the Border Patrol Union, described the situation as “inhumane” and expressed concern over the number of lives lost during these dangerous treks.
The surge in migrant deaths is not only a result of the perilous conditions but also a reflection of the increasing power that cartels hold over border crossings. Cartels have introduced a wristband system to track migrants, linking specific colors to payments made for passage and indicating the route they will take. This system allows cartels to exert greater control over the migrant flow, charging migrants up to $15,000 for “VIP” crossing packages.
Migrants who cannot afford the hefty price are forced to take more dangerous routes, often resulting in life-threatening situations. These migrants face heightened risks from the terrain, weather, and even the cartels themselves, who are known to exploit vulnerable people for profit.
The Texas Border Patrol is facing an overwhelming challenge as they try to manage the rising death toll while patrolling the vast Texas borderland. Border Patrol agents are tasked with covering miles of remote land, often in areas that are difficult to monitor effectively. As the crisis intensifies, agents report that it is becoming harder to manage the situation and prevent further deaths.
The increasing number of encounters, along with the shift in cartel tactics, means that Border Patrol must not only deal with the immediate dangers of migrant crossings but also navigate the complexities of criminal activity in these areas.
Ahead of the January presidential inauguration, the Texas National Guard is conducting response drills and increasing their readiness to handle a potential surge in border crossings. This preparation comes as the state braces for a possible influx of migrants attempting to cross before President-elect Donald Trump takes office. Trump has repeatedly promised to implement mass deportations, fueling fear among many migrants that their opportunity to cross into the U.S. will be significantly restricted once he assumes office.
Operation Lone Star, a state-level security initiative, has been ramped up in response to these concerns. Texas National Guard units are reinforcing their presence along the border, preparing for an influx of migrants attempting to cross before the anticipated crackdown on immigration begins.
One of the busiest sectors along the U.S.-Mexico border is the El Paso Sector, which spans 268 miles. Border Patrol in this region reported 10,820 encounters with migrants, signaling that the crisis is far from over. Many of these migrants are attempting to cross before the new presidential administration begins its tenure, fearing that strict immigration policies will make it harder for them to enter the U.S. once Trump is inaugurated.
The situation at the U.S.-Mexico border is evolving rapidly, with cartels tightening their grip on crossings and migrants facing increasing dangers as they attempt to reach safety in the U.S. The tragic rise in migrant deaths, coupled with the growing influence of criminal organizations, has added new layers of complexity to an already volatile situation. As Texas ramp-ups security and the National Guard prepares for a potential surge in crossings, it remains to be seen how the incoming administration will address this ongoing crisis and protect the lives of those who risk everything to seek a better future.