Texas Border Patrol Ambush: Gunman Killed in Shootout
A 27-year-old man armed with a rifle was shot and killed after launching a violent ambush on U.S. Border Patrol agents outside a federal facility in McAllen, Texas, on Monday morning, officials confirmed.
Authorities identified the suspect as Ryan Louis Mosqueda, who reportedly opened fire as agents arrived at a Border Patrol sector annex facility. The Department of Homeland Security (DHS) said both Border Patrol agents and local police quickly returned fire and neutralized the gunman. The Federal Bureau of Investigation is now leading the ongoing investigation.
“This morning an individual opened fire at the entrance of the United States Border Patrol sector annex in McAllen, Texas,” DHS said in a statement. “Both Border Patrol agents and local police helped neutralize the shooter.”
According to McAllen Police Chief Victor Rodriguez, Mosqueda was heavily armed. In addition to the rifle used in the attack, police found another rifle and a significant amount of ammunition in his backpack. Rodriguez noted, “There are many, many more rounds of ammunition in his backpack.”
Authorities also discovered a white two-door sedan near the scene. The vehicle had unusual graffiti, possibly Latin text, painted on the driver’s side door. Investigators are still trying to determine the significance of the markings, if any.
“What it means, or whether or not it is an underlying reason for him being here, I do not know,” Rodriguez said when asked about the graffiti.
So far, Mosqueda’s motive remains unknown, and authorities have not found any prior indication of his plans. The swift response by law enforcement prevented any further casualties. No agents or civilians were reported injured in the incident.
In response to the attack, House Speaker Mike Johnson issued a public statement, linking the rise in violence against law enforcement to anti-police rhetoric.
“When Democrats assault our brave law enforcement officers with their actions and rhetoric, it encourages unstable people to go even further,” Johnson wrote on X (formerly Twitter). “We call on every elected official to insist that law enforcement MUST be treated with the dignity and respect they deserve.”
The McAllen International Airport, located nearby, was temporarily closed and all flights delayed as a precaution during the emergency. The airport has since reopened and resumed full operations.
“Thanks to the quick coordination of emergency personnel and airport staff, we’re pleased to welcome travelers back with full service,” said McAllen City Manager Isaac J. Tawil.
As the FBI and local agencies continue to investigate, questions remain about the shooter’s motive, background, and whether he acted alone.
