The recent helicopter crash that tragically claimed the lives of two National Guard soldiers and one Border Patrol agent is currently under investigation. The incident occurred over a border city near the Rio Grande on Friday, where a helicopter carrying four individuals went down during a mission along the U.S.-Mexico border. The U.S. Military is actively working to determine the exact cause of the crash.
Officials have confirmed the identities of the three individuals who lost their lives in the crash. The victims were identified as 30-year-old Casey Frankowski, 28-year-old John Grazia, both Army National Guard soldiers, and U.S. Border Patrol agent Chris Luna. Another National Guard soldier who was on board sustained serious injuries.
The team was engaged in a federal border operation in the Rio Grande Valley at the time of the crash. According to the Border Patrol Union, they were on a routine patrol tracking individuals who may have crossed into the U.S. The aircraft encountered mechanical difficulties, leading to the tragic crash.
Former Acting ICE Director Tom Homan highlighted the significance of air missions involving both National Guard and Border Patrol, emphasizing the importance of aerial coverage in vast border regions with limited ground resources. The collaboration between the National Guard's helicopter operation expertise and the Border Patrol agents' knowledge of the terrain is crucial for effective border security operations.
Meanwhile, in Eagle Pass, Texas, migrants continue to arrive at the U.S.-Mexico border. Recent footage captured a group of approximately 40 individuals crossing the Rio Grande, some carrying young children. A National Guard member from the state of Texas noted that the region is entering a peak crossing season, with favorable river levels and weather conditions potentially leading to larger groups attempting to enter the U.S. in the near future.
