Faith leaders, officials react to 53 migrant deaths in Texas
A tragedy in South Texas has put the community in the international spotlight again.
At least 50 people were found dead in a big rig trailer on San Antonio’s southwest side on Monday evening.
Local officials said the victims were piled into a trailer on the side of a secluded road and discovered by a nearby worker, who heard cries for help.
Authorities believe they died of asphyxiation, heat stroke and exhaustion, without water in the sweltering heat.
First responders transported 16 survivors to local hospitals.
Over recent years, there have been many similar examples of migrants perishing during their journey, but no single event as deadly as what was discovered on Monday.
Faith leaders and politicians sent messages on social media, in response to the “horrific human tragedy:”
Pope Francis
I sorrowfully heard the news of the tragedy of the #migrants in Texas and #Melilla. Let us #PrayTogether for these brothers and sisters who died following their hope of a better life; and for ourselves, may the Lord might open our hearts so these misfortunes never happen again.
— Pope Francis (@Pontifex) June 28, 2022
Alejandro Mayorkas, the secretary of the U.S. Department of Homeland Security
I am heartbroken by the tragic loss of life today and am praying for those still fighting for their lives. Far too many lives have been lost as individuals – including families, women, and children – take this dangerous journey.
— Secretary Alejandro Mayorkas (@SecMayorkas) June 28, 2022
Archbishop Gustavo García-Siller, Archdiocese of San Antonio
There are about 46 migrants dead in San Antonio. Our prayers raised up to you O Lord for their souls. Lord have mercy on them. They hoped for a better life. Lord after Uvalde and now this, help us! We need you! So many people suffering. God, God, God.
— Archbishop Gustavo (@ABishopGustavo) June 28, 2022
San Antonio Mayor Ron Nirenberg
Migrants seeking asylum should always be treated as a humanitarian crisis, but this evening we’re facing a horrific human tragedy.
— Mayor Ron Nirenberg (@Ron_Nirenberg) June 28, 2022
More than 40 hopeful lives were lost. I urge you to think compassionately, pray for the deceased, the ailing, and their families at this moment.
Rep. Joaquin Castro, San Antonio congressman
The tragedy in San Antonio tonight, the loss of life, is horrific. My prayers are with the victims, their families and the survivors being treated in our community. May God bless them.
— Joaquin Castro (@JoaquinCastrotx) June 28, 2022
We must end Title 42 which has put desperate, oppressed people in grave danger of death. https://t.co/P0l8YmtHmq
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