Body Of Missing Texas National Guard Soldier Found: Officials

EAGLE PASS, TX — Texas officials found the body of a Texas National Guard soldier who disappeared Friday morning during a rescue attempt in the Rio Grande River, the Texas Military Department announced Monday in a news release.

Spc. Bishop E. Evans was attempting to rescue two migrants who appeared to be drowning while crossing the river from Mexico to the United States when he disappeared near Eagle Pass, authorities said. The release did not say where Evans' body was recovered.

Officials from the Border Patrol, Texas Military Department, Texas Department of Public Safety, Texas Parks and Wildlife, and local law enforcement agencies searched for Evans for three days.

"We are devastated by the loss of a member of our Guard family," said Maj. Gen. Tom Suelzer, adjutant general for Texas. "We recognize the selflessness of this heroic soldier who put his life above others in service to our state and national security. The Texas Military Department sends our deepest condolences to the family. Our thoughts and prayers are with them during this difficult time."

Evans was assigned to Operation Lone Star, Gov. Greg Abbott's initiative to respond to increased illegal immigration.

Abbott said in a statement he was heartbroken to learn of Evans' death and thanked the search and rescue personnel for their efforts in locating him.

"I ask that Texans join [my wife] Cecilia and me in praying for the family and friends of Specialist Evans as they grieve this heartbreaking loss," Abbott said in the statement.

Abbott announced increased security measures at the border in early April, including increased boat blockades along the Rio Grande River.

Patch has reached out to the Texas Military Department for more information.

This story is being updated.