(WatchDogReport.org) – On Sunday, April 24, Governor Greg Abbott (R-TX) identified a member of the Texas National Guard, who was originally presumed lost in the Rio Grande, as Specialist Bishop Evans. Evans presumably jumped into the river at an incredibly dangerous spot in an attempt to save migrants in peril. His body was recovered on Monday, April 25.
Abbott shared a photo of Evans along with his condolences to the hero’s family on Twitter, which sparked an outcrying of well-wishes, thoughts, and prayers. The governor expressed his appreciation for Evans’ service and sacrifice.
I ordered flags to be lowered to half-staff to honor TX Guard Specialist Bishop Evans who died while serving in the line of duty during Operation Lone Star.
This brave young man gave his last full measure of devotion to his state & country.
His heroism will never be forgotten. pic.twitter.com/ljeCpoZgje
— Greg Abbott (@GregAbbott_TX) April 25, 2022
The National Guardsman went missing on Friday, sparking a massive search operation, culminating in the governor’s message of his bravery.
Evans was in Texas as part of Operation Lone Star to aid state and local law enforcement and immigration and customs agents with the crisis at the southern border. He entered the river near a spot that, last week, claimed the lives of nine migrants attempting to reach the US. Evans was swept away by the current.
At least two of the people Evans jumped in to save are safe and in custody at the border patrol station in Eagle Pass under suspicion of illicit narcotics trafficking.
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