Six people were found dead Sunday inside a Union Pacific Railroad boxcar in Laredo, Texas, a city located directly on the U.S.-Mexico border, according to the Laredo Police Department.
Background
Laredo sits approximately 157 miles southwest of San Antonio along the Rio Grande, serving as a major crossing point for trade and travelers between the United States and Mexico. The discovery occurred Sunday afternoon when temperatures in the area reached 97 degrees, with conditions inside the enclosed boxcar likely exceeding 100 degrees, according to CBS San Antonio affiliate KENS-TV.
The Investigation
Police said a Union Pacific railroad employee discovered the bodies inside the freight car. Authorities have not publicly identified the victims and provided few details about the ongoing probe. 'This is an on-going fluid investigation,' Laredo police said in a statement. Union Pacific issued its own statement saying the company was 'saddened by this incident' and confirmed it was 'working closely with law enforcement to investigate.' The Webb County Medical Examiner's office will determine official causes of death.
Key Takeaways
- Six people were discovered deceased inside a Union Pacific boxcar in Laredo, Texas on Sunday
- A railroad employee found the bodies during routine operations
- Police described the investigation as 'on-going' and 'fluid,' offering few specifics
- Victims have not been publicly identified pending notification of next of kin
- Temperatures reached 97 degrees in the area at the time of discovery, with enclosed boxcar conditions likely hotter
- Union Pacific confirmed it is cooperating fully with law enforcement
- Laredo sits on the U.S.-Mexico border approximately 157 miles southwest of San Antonio
What's Next
The Webb County Medical Examiner is expected to perform autopsies and attempt to establish positive identification of the victims. Investigators will work to determine how long the individuals had been inside the boxcar and whether they entered voluntarily or were placed there. Authorities have not announced any suspects or arrests in connection with the deaths. No further public statements from Laredo police or Union Pacific were immediately available.