Pharr, Texas - U.S. Border Patrol agents saved the life of a man, who was struggling to stay afloat in the Rio Grande, early Tuesday morning.

Agents assigned to the Weslaco Station were working near the river when they encountered two illegal immigrants, who had attempted to avoid apprehension by swimming to Mexico. One of the immigrants made it to the south side but the other was struggling to stay above water near the U.S. riverbank.

One of the agents called for an ambulance, while the other agent threw the man a life jacket. The agents pulled the man ashore and immediately began to provide first aid. The man, who is from El Salvador, was extremely cold and fatigued.

Shortly thereafter, EMT certified agents arrived and provided medical attention while awaiting the ambulance. The man was transported to a hospital in McAllen for further treatment.

The Rio Grande Valley Sector is part of the South Texas Campaign, which leverages federal, state and local resources to combat transnational criminal organizations. To report suspicious activity, call the sector’s toll-free telephone number at 800-863-9382.