Tractor-Trailer Catches Fire After Bypassing Falfurrias Checkpoint

U.S. Customs and Border Protection

FALFURRIAS, TEXAS (News Release) - On Thursday, June 4, 2026, at approximately 8:36 p.m., a tractor trailer approached the Falfurrias Border Patrol Checkpoint in Encino, Texas. During an immigration inspection, a U.S. Border Patrol K9 alerted to the trailer. Agents directed the driver to secondary inspection, but the driver disregarded instructions and fled the checkpoint.

Falfurrias agents initiated pursuit, activating emergency equipment and attempting to conduct a vehicle stop. The driver failed to yield and continued northbound on Highway 281 before turning southbound south of Falfurrias. Texas Department of Public Safety Troopers responded to assist by continuing the pursuit and successfully deploying a vehicle immobilization device. Despite deflated tires, the suspect continued driving until the tractor caught fire.

Agents and troopers immediately removed the two occupants from the burning vehicle and placed them under arrest. During the arrest, agents discovered that individuals were inside the trailer. Agents and troopers were able to open the locked trailer and rescue 39 suspected illegal aliens before the tractor and trailer were engulfed in flames.

All subjects were medically screened for injuries prior to being taken into custody. This case is under joint investigation by Homeland Security Investigations and U.S. Border Patrol. U.S. Customs and Border Protection’s Office of Professional Responsibility is reviewing the incident.