8/7/2014
The Cameron County Sheriff’s Department has now linked one of the suspects in the murder of a Rio Grande Valley Border Patrol agent to other armed robberies.
One of the suspects in the Border Patrol agent’s murder is accused of committing other robberies at fishing spots near Camp Perry.
Authorities told Action 4 News Gustavo Tijerina will face charges in connection to other armed robberies in Cameron County.
Border Patrol Agent Javier Vega, Jr. was killed by armed robbers, while he and his family were fishing in Willacy County.
The Border Patrol agent from Kingsville was visiting family in the Rio Grande Valley.
Vega was off-duty and was confronted by the two armed men during a botched robbery.
An exchange of gunfire ended with Vega fatally shot in the chest, his father shot in the hip and the two suspects fleeing the scene.
Authorities later caught up to Tijerina and Ismael Hernandez after they were hiding behind a shed.
Authorities told Action 4 News, the two men are from Matamoros in the U.S. illegally.
US Border Patrol’s Rio Grande Valley sector has issued the following statement in wake of Agent Vega’s death:
The senseless shooting death of Border Patrol Agent Javier Vega Jr. while fishing with his family Aug. 3, has left an indelible impact upon the men and women of the U.S. Border Patrol’s Rio Grande Valley Sector.
“Words cannot express our sorrow for the loss of our brother, when we lose one of our own, it feels as if we’ve lost a beloved member of our own family,” said Chief Patrol Agent Kevin Oaks. “I wish to express to his family and friends my deepest condolences. May the peace that comes from the memories of the time you shared together, comfort you now and in the difficult days ahead.”
Prior to joining the Border Patrol, Agent Vega served his country as a Marine. His service in the Marine Corps and in the Border Patrol is a true testament to the type of man he was. His character, work ethic and desire to help others are commendable. His death is not only a loss for RGV Sector and the U.S. Border Patrol, but for our entire community.
“The Kingsville Station is at a loss,” said Kingsville Station Acting Patrol Agent in Charge Arnold Perez. “Not only did Javier strive to be the best agent and K-9 handler, but he also made it a point to develop and truly care about his friendships.”
In the days that have followed this devastating loss, the impact has been immediate and sorrowful. In the many comments and thoughts expressed by those who knew him best, his family and friends were an obvious priority and focus in his life. His co-workers say he was a good man, devoted to his family, particularly his wife, Paola, and sons, Javier Vega III, Jiovanni, and Jarod. He was a beloved son and brother, and had a passion for life.
In the days that have followed this devastating loss, the impact has been immediate and sorrowful. In the many comments and thoughts expressed by those who knew him best, his family and friends were an obvious priority and focus in his life. His co-workers say he was a good man, devoted to his family, particularly his wife, Paola, and sons, Javier Vega III, Jiovanni, and Jarod. He was a beloved son and brother, and had a passion for life.
RGV Sector wishes to thank all the members of the community who have pledged their support during this difficult time. We have been struck with emotion by the outpouring of support from the community. Additionally, the Border Patrol is extremely appreciative of the quick response and interagency effort involving Sheriff Larry Spence and the Willacy County Sheriff’s Office, DPS, FBI and the Rio Grande Valley Special Operations Detachment that led to the arrest and confessions of the men believed to have perpetrated this crime.
In lieu of flowers, the family of Border Patrol Agent Javier Vega, Jr. requests donations be made to:
Javier Vega, Jr. Memorial Fund at Rio Bank, P.O. Box 4169, McAllen, Texas 78502
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