High-Speed Chase on US 57 Leads to Arrest of Smuggling Suspects
Deputy Pursues Reckless Driver in Black Dodge Charger
La Pryor, TX – In a daring late-night operation, law enforcement successfully apprehended a driver and passenger involved in a smuggling attempt following a high-speed chase on US Highway 57. The incident occurred on July 01, 2023, at 11:35 PM when A Deputy of the ZCSO (Zavala County Sheriff’s Office) was informed by the US Border Patrol about a black Dodge Charger that had blown through the checkpoint.
A Deputy was patrolling the western section of Highway 57 near La Pryor when they spotted the vehicle entering the town. An attempt was made to conduct a routine traffic stop, but the driver failed to yield, initiating a dangerous pursuit. Recklessly navigating the highway at speeds exceeding 120 MPH, the Dodge Charger posed a severe threat to public safety.
Gaining the assistance from another Deputy, the law enforcement officers were able to bring the vehicle to a complete stop, ultimately apprehending both the driver and the passenger. The driver was identified as a United States citizen hailing from Missouri, while the passenger was revealed to be a Honduran national residing in the United States without legal authorization.
The driver was promptly transported to the ZCSO, where they were charged with smuggling of persons, a second-degree felony, as well as fleeing from law enforcement. The undocumented immigrant was handed over to the custody of the US Border Patrol for further processing. Meanwhile, Garcia’s Towing was authorized to release the impounded Dodge Charger.
This incident serves as a reminder of the persistent efforts by law enforcement agencies to combat smuggling activities and maintain border security. The ZCSO, in collaboration with the US Border Patrol, has displayed its unwavering commitment to preventing illicit movements and preserving the safety of communities.
Authorities commend the quick thinking and cooperative efforts of the Deputies involved, whose decisive actions successfully brought the dangerous pursuit to an end, preventing potential harm to innocent bystanders. The successful apprehension of the smuggling suspects sends a clear message that such illegal activities will not be tolerated within the region.
As investigations into the smuggling operation continue, the ZCSO and partnering agencies remain dedicated to safeguarding the integrity of the US-Mexico border and ensuring the safety and well-being of residents in La Pryor and surrounding areas.