A tragic incident unfolded near Rio Grande City, Texas, on Friday as a helicopter conducting a mission along the southern border crashed, resulting in the loss of two National Guard soldiers and one Border Patrol agent.
The Associated Press (AP) reported Friday that a fourth soldier, who was aboard during the crash, sustained injuries and was later listed in critical condition. Officials are currently investigating the cause of the crash.
According to Joint Task Force North, the UH-72 Lakota helicopter was assisting federal border security officials when the incident occurred.
When the crash occurred, Mexican cartel members were heard laughing in video footage taken near the scene, according to Fox News:
In video footage from a U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) agent, obtained by Fox News, cartel members were seen watching the National Guards helicopter plummet to the ground with their drone.
…
The disturbing footage showed the moment the helicopter crashed, and the cartel members were seen dashing through the field in La Grulla, Texas.
“Go to he–,” the cartel members were heard yelling in Spanish.
According to a CBP agent, cartels often visit the La Grulla area, known for drug and human smuggling activities.
WATCH:
BREAKING: Per Border Patrol source, cartel members were watching the helicopter on their drone when it crashed, then they zoomed into the crash site and laughed about it. Posted on cartel social media. The La Grulla area sees frequent cartel activity via drug & human smuggling. pic.twitter.com/WC9IhFolat
— Bill Melugin (@BillMelugin_) March 9, 2024
Officials from the Joint Task Force North have stated that the names of those who perished in the helicopter crash will not be disclosed until their next of kin have been notified.
Share your thoughts by scrolling down to leave a comment.
