Two individuals suspected of human smuggling led law enforcement on a high-speed pursuit exceeding 100 miles per hour across Texas on Thursday. The chase culminated with the suspects abandoning their vehicle, followed by one allegedly committing an armed carjacking before both were apprehended.
The incident unfolded along Interstate 10 in Fabens, Texas, and was captured by helicopter video from U.S. Customs and Border Protection's Air and Marine Operations (AMO). The footage shows law enforcement vehicles in pursuit of the suspects' vehicle.
Dramatic Pursuit and Foot Chase
During the chase, an official's radio communication indicated that the front right tire of the suspects' vehicle might have been damaged by a spike strip. Moments later, the vehicle visibly slowed, and its two occupants quickly exited and began to flee on foot.
"Bail out, bail out, bail out!" a voice is heard shouting in the video as the suspects made their escape.
The two men were then observed running across the busy highway. A member of the Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) swiftly apprehended one of the suspects.
Armed Carjacking and Arrest
The second individual allegedly carjacked a civilian at gunpoint in an attempt to evade capture. However, authorities confirmed that this suspect was also later taken into custody.
Officials have not yet released specific details regarding the number of individuals allegedly being smuggled or their nationalities.
CBP Commissioner Rodney Scott commended the inter-agency collaboration on social media, stating, "Outstanding coordination by Border Patrol, AMO, HSI and Texas DPS." He further elaborated on the severity of the incident: "Suspected human smugglers hit 100+ mph and bailed out when their vehicle was disabled. One then carjacked a civilian at gunpoint. Smugglers risk lives for profit. We will keep taking them down."
The incident occurred near a Speedway gas station at approximately 9:16 a.m. local time.
The suspects are anticipated to face multiple charges, including human smuggling and evading arrest or detention.
