Details surrounding the recent shooting at a Border Patrol annex in McAllen, Texas, remain limited, as violence against federal immigration officials continues to escalate. The incident involved 27-year-old Ryan Louis Mosqueda, who was identified as the shooter and was killed at the scene. According to a Department of Homeland Security spokesperson, both Border Patrol agents and local police collaborated to neutralize Mosqueda. The attack resulted in injuries to two officers and a Border Patrol employee, one of whom was shot in the knee. All injured parties were hospitalized, and the FBI is leading an ongoing investigation into the incident.

Shooter’s Motive Remains Unclear

Despite identifying Mosqueda as the shooter, authorities have yet to determine his motive. McAllen Police Chief Victor Rodriguez provided no additional insights during a press conference, leaving many questions unanswered. The gunman reportedly fired numerous rounds at the Customs and Border Protection station in McAllen. Although Mosqueda had ties to Michigan, he was reported missing from Weslaco, Texas, shortly before the shooting occurred.

Family Suspects Mental Health Issues

Joe Mosqueda, Ryan’s brother, expressed surprise at the incident, noting that Ryan had never discussed immigration issues or expressed hostility toward Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE). Joe suspects that his brother may have been struggling with undiagnosed mental health challenges. Attempts to reach Joe or other family members for further comment were unsuccessful.

Rising Violence Against Federal Agents

The Department of Homeland Security has reported a significant increase in assaults against ICE officers and federal immigration agents, with incidents rising nearly 700% compared to the previous year. This surge in violence has prompted calls from the White House for Democrats to moderate their rhetoric toward federal immigration officials. White House press secretary Karoline Leavitt emphasized the need for respect and dignity for these agents who are tasked with enforcing immigration laws.

Political Reactions and Ongoing Investigations

The recent shooting has sparked political reactions, with lawmakers like Rep. Michael Guest attributing the rise in violence to “radical anti-law enforcement rhetoric.” Guest stressed that such rhetoric endangers law enforcement personnel and affirmed support for ongoing investigations by the FBI and Homeland Security into these attacks.