17 found in cloned Lowe’s truck being illegally transported into US

KINNEY COUNTY, Texas – The recent discovery of 17 migrants hidden in a fake Lowe’s Home Improvement store truck in Kinney County, Texas has shed light on the ongoing issue of human smuggling operations in the region. The Texas Department of Public Safety found 13 men and 4 women concealed in the truck, which had been cleverly modified to resemble a legitimate commercial vehicle on the outside.

Lieutenant Christopher Olivarez of the Texas DPS South described the vehicle as a “cloned truck” due to its deceptive exterior appearance and hidden compartment designed for transporting individuals in secrecy. Fortunately, although no fatalities occurred during this incident, several individuals required medical attention for dehydration.

Olivarez commended the quick actions of the trooper involved, stating that a potential mass casualty event was averted through their intervention. This incident serves as a stark reminder of the dangers and consequences associated with human smuggling activities.

The driver, identified as 28-year-old Megel Patterson from Jackson, Mississippi, has been charged with human smuggling causing serious bodily injury. This case underscores the ongoing efforts of law enforcement agencies to combat human trafficking and prevent similar tragedies.

This incident is not an isolated occurrence, as similar “cloned vehicles” have been used in other human smuggling operations. Lieutenant Olivarez highlighted a recent incident in Carrizo Springs where a Safelite truck was also found to be cloned for illicit purposes. The risks and legal consequences associated with human smuggling are severe, emphasizing the importance of ongoing vigilance and enforcement efforts.

The individuals discovered in this incident have been turned over to U.S. Border Patrol for further processing and investigation. This serves as a reminder of the challenges faced in combating illegal immigration and human trafficking along the border.