A suspected human smuggler identified as Juan Miguel Regalado has been apprehended in South Texas by Texas Department of Public Safety troopers for charges of human smuggling and evading arrest. This comes after Regalado attempted to escape authorities a month ago by swimming to Mexico following a high-speed chase in Laredo.
According to reports, Regalado led troopers on a high-speed pursuit through downtown Laredo on April 20, ultimately crashing the SUV he was driving into the Rio Grande River and swimming across the border to Tamaulipas. Texas Rangers were crucial in identifying Regalado from the chase footage, leading to the issuance of an arrest warrant.
Regalado was taken into custody after being pulled over for inspection in South Texas. Records from the Webb County jail indicate that he was released on $30,000 bond on Thursday.
DPS officials have stated that Regalado is a member of the Tango Blast gang. Video footage of the April 20 chase showcases the chaotic scene, with the SUV evading law enforcement vehicles despite attempts to stop it.
Sandra Sanchez can be reached at [email protected].
