The body of a Texas National Army Guardsman who went missing after rescuing two migrants who were struggling in the Rio Grande River along the U.S.-Mexico border has been found. Officials say he drowned during the rescue attempt.
RELATED STORIES: Search Paused For National Guard Soldier Who Rescued Migrant Woman
Texas Gov. Greg Abbott confirms the soldier’s death three days after he was reported missing
Specialist Bishop E. Evans,22, was declared deceased three days after officials reported he went missing after rescuing two migrants who appeared to be drowning in the Rio Grande. Gov. Greg Abbott released a statement confirming Evans’ tragic death and called him “a hero who risked his life in service of Texas.”
“We are heartbroken to learn of the death of SPC Bishop E. Evans who was reported missing in Eagle Pass on Friday. I thank the members of the Texas National Guard, the Texas Department of Public Safety, Texas Parks and Wildlife, Border Patrol, and local law enforcement for working around the clock to locate this soldier. “
RELATED STORIES: Three National Guard Members Killed In Helicopter Crash
Bishop Evans’ life as a National Guardsman before his death
According to CBS News, Evans was assigned to A Battery, 4-133 Field Artillery Regiment in New Braunfels. He joined the National Guard in 2019 and took part in Operation Spartan Shield in Kuwait. Officials said the two migrants that Evans rescued were taken into custody by U.S. Customs and Border Patrol after military officials believed they were involved in a drug-smuggling scheme.
Evans’ death was also addressed during a White House press conference with press secretary Jen Psaki.
It was also revealed before his disappearance that Evans removed his armor to help save the migrants.
Evans was also assigned to Operation Lone Star before his death, a mission where National Guardsmen are patrolling the border between the United States and Mexico. The mission authorizes the soldiers to make arrests. However, the mission has faced criticism due to hundreds of migrants being placed in jails for trespassing charges. It is also common for migrants to be rescued as the strong currents in the Rio Grande river have contributed to the drownings of migrants who attempt to cross the border.
His family did not release a statement in reference to his passing.