An alleged smuggler who was rescued from the Rio Grande while attempting to run into Mexico after a pursuit is facing federal charges, according to court documents.
Carlos Alejandro Hernandez Briones, 22, was arrested on allegations of transit, attempted transport, and conspiracy to transport.
On April 17, a Texas Department of Public Safety trooper got information from the Border Patrol about a burgundy Chevrolet Tahoe used to smuggle migrants.
The trooper discovered the car near the Fuel America Travel Center on FM 1472 and Killam Industrial Boulevard. When the trooper attempted to pull over the vehicle for a traffic stop, the driver refused and fled, authorities said.
A vehicle pursuit began on Interstate 35 and terminated around Santa Maria Avenue and Pedregal Street. The driver, Hernandez Briones, fled toward the Rio Grande, according to the arrest complaint.
“Hernandez Briones was not able to swim and was rescued by the trooper and then placed into custody,” an affidavit adds.
According to court filings, Border Patrol apprehended five migrants at the smuggling event. Homeland Security Investigations special agents took up the investigation.
In a post-arrest interview, Hernandez Briones admitted to transporting migrants for monetary compensation. He added that this was his first time transporting migrants, according to the affidavit.
