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Six Found Dead in Laredo Boxcar as Probe Ties Seventh Body to Train

Investigators now focus on heat-driven smuggling risks along the busy Laredo rail corridor.

Overview

  • A Union Pacific worker inspecting a train in Laredo reported six bodies in a sealed boxcar Sunday afternoon, triggering a multiagency investigation.
  • Investigators in Bexar County said Monday a man found dead near tracks outside San Antonio is linked to the same train, citing door-sensor alerts and items he carried.
  • The Webb County medical examiner ruled hyperthermia in initial autopsies, identified five of the six as Mexican and Honduran nationals ages 14 to 56, and is coordinating with consulates.
  • Authorities are examining a likely smuggling attempt after a text from inside described extreme heat and after sensors showed the boxcar opening in Del Rio and again near San Antonio.
  • Laredo police, Homeland Security Investigations and the Texas Rangers are leading the case with Union Pacific cooperating, as sealed rail cars can trap lethal heat on this cross-border route.