WATCH: 39 Suspected Illegal Immigrants Rescued From Burning Trailer After Pursuit

FALFURRIAS, TX — Texas Department of Public Safety troopers and U.S. Border Patrol agents rescued 39 suspected illegal immigrants from a tractor-trailer that caught fire during a high-speed pursuit along Highway 281 near Falfurrias, authorities reported. 

The incident occurred June 4 when DPS troopers responded to assist Border Patrol agents in a vehicle pursuit involving the tractor-trailer. During the chase, troopers deployed a tire deflation device in an attempt to stop the vehicle. The driver continued to evade until the tractor-trailer caught fire, DPS stated in a statement Tuesday. 

Troopers and agents immediately removed the driver and a passenger from the vehicle’s cab and placed them under arrest. The driver then informed law enforcement that there were additional occupants inside the trailer. 

Authorities quickly unlocked the trailer and rescued the 39 suspected illegal immigrants before the trailer became engulfed in flames. All subjects were medically screened for injuries prior to being taken into custody. 

The Texas Department of Public Safety described the episode as a reminder of the dangerous lengths human smugglers will go to in this criminal activity. The agency said it is proud to work with federal partners, including the U.S. Border Patrol, to stop them.