BORDER PATROL AGENT FIRES ROUND AT ALLEGED DRUG SMUGGLERS NEAR B&M BRIDGE

A U.S. Border Patrol agent fired his service weapon at several alleged
drug smugglers who were throwing rocks at him and another agent.

The incident happened at around 7 p.m. Monday near the B&M
International Bridge in Brownsville, said Border Patrol spokeswoman
Rosalinda Huey.

The agents were patrolling when they encountered several people who
appeared to be carrying bundles of marijuana, authorities said.

When the agents confronted the individuals, they began throwing rocks
at the agents, Huey said.

"One of our agents, in defense of himself and his partner, fired his
service-issued rifle at the subjects. None of our agents were
injured," Huey said.

It is unknown if anyone in the group of alleged smugglers was
injured.

A helicopter was sent to the area to help search for the alleged
smugglers, but none were located.

The agents recovered more than 13 pounds of marijuana that were left
behind, Huey said.

Brownsville City Manager Charlie Cabler said the city had received
inquiries involving gunshots fired Monday night. Authorities believe
callers were referring to the same incident, although some reports
said it sounded like guns were being fired between the B&M bridge and
the Gateway International Bridge.

Cabler said to his knowledge no injuries were reported.

The Border Patrol said an investigation into the incident continues.