Stranded Migrants Saved After Attempted San Diego Border Breach

SAN YSIDRO, CA — Six Haitian migrants, reportedly trying to illegally enter the country, were rescued by authorities Wednesday after getting stuck on the swollen Tijuana River channel, just west of the San Ysidro port of entry in San Diego County, officials said.

Border Patrol agents helped rescue the six adults, who became stranded on a small “island,” that was in unusually deep, swift-moving water due to recent, high rainfall, according to the San Diego sector of U.S. Customs and Border Protection.

Assisting in the operation were San Diego County Fire and Rescue and San Diego Lifeguard River Rescue teams, the agency said.

The Tijuana River site is a common entry point for individuals attempting to illegally enter the U.S. from Mexico, according to Border Patrol staff.

After medical evaluations, the persons were taken into Border Patrol custody, the agency said.

“We have said it many times, do not place your life or the lives of your loved ones in the hands of callous smugglers,” said San Diego Sector Chief Patrol Agent Aaron Heitke. “There is only one safe way to enter the United States, and that is through designated ports of entry.”

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