A middle school in southern New Mexico went on lockdown when agents from the Santa Teresa Station of the Border Patrol apprehended a group of six undocumented migrants just outside the school. The individuals were determined to be illegal migrants and were transported to the Santa Teresa Station for processing. Border Patrol officials made it clear that neither the agents nor the apprehended individuals entered school property during the incident. As a precautionary measure, the school temporarily sheltered in place when they observed law enforcement in close proximity to the school. The border patrol spokesperson emphasized that agents are always mindful of the safety of both migrants and the public, especially around schools near the border.
One concerned Santa Teresa Middle School mother, who wished to remain anonymous, expressed her nervousness for her child’s safety in light of the lockdown. She admitted to feeling scared with every notification from the school about lockdowns, as any parent would when their child’s safety is potentially at risk. The Gadsden Independent School District expressed gratitude towards the U.S. Border Patrol and the Sunland Park Police Department for their swift and professional response to the situation. The school district acknowledged that the actions of these law enforcement agencies helped to ensure the safety and security of students and staff throughout the incident.
Border Patrol revealed that the El Paso Sector sees nearly 1,000 migrant encounters per day, with the majority occurring near Santa Teresa and Sunland Park. Due to the close proximity of these schools to the border, such events are reported to happen weekly in the area. “The Anarpa Gap,” an opening in the border wall about five miles from the school, was identified as an area where many individuals attempt to evade arrest by law enforcement. Refugio Corrales, a spokesperson for the U.S. Border Patrol, explained that people in this area may have criminal histories or immigration issues, leading them to run and seek refuge in unfamiliar locations.
The Border Patrol spokesperson stressed that the safety and well-being of both migrants and the general public, especially around schools near the border, are always a top priority for agents. No incidents of anyone entering the school property were reported during the apprehension of the undocumented migrants just outside the Santa Teresa Middle School. The temporary shelter in place of the school was put in effect as a precautionary measure when law enforcement were observed in close proximity to the school. Parents, staff, and students expressed concern and anxiety over the incident but praised the swift response of the Border Patrol and local law enforcement in ensuring their safety.
Officials from the Gadsden Independent School District issued a statement conveying their sincere gratitude to the U.S. Border Patrol agents and the Sunland Park Police Department for their rapid and professional handling of the situation. Their efforts played a crucial role in maintaining the safety and security of students and staff during the lockdown incident. The school district acknowledged the challenges faced by schools located near the border and commended the coordinated response of law enforcement agencies in ensuring the safety of the school community. The incident served as a reminder of the importance of vigilance and preparedness in addressing potential security threats near the border.
Residents and officials in the area near Santa Teresa Middle School remain vigilant and aware of the frequent migrant encounters in the region, with many incidents occurring near the border wall openings such as “The Anarpa Gap.” Individuals attempting to evade arrest may have criminal backgrounds or immigration issues, leading them to flee and seek refuge in unfamiliar areas. Law enforcement agencies are constantly monitoring and responding to such incidents to ensure the safety of the community, especially in areas close to the border. The ongoing challenges posed by the proximity of the border highlight the need for continued coordination and vigilance to address security threats and ensure the safety of residents, students, and staff in the region near the border.
