Ryan Mosqueda Obituary-Death News; Ryan Mosqueda, Texas Shooter Dies after Firing at U.S. Border Patrol Station
A Michigan man is dead and a police officer injured following a harrowing shootout early Monday morning outside a U.S. Border Patrol station in McAllen, Texas.
Authorities say the suspect, identified as 27- or 28-year-old Ryan Louis Mosqueda, launched an unprovoked attack on the federal building shortly before 6 a.m., sparking a swift and intense response from federal and local law enforcement.
McAllen Police Chief Victor Rodriguez confirmed during a press conference that Mosqueda arrived at the Border Patrol facility armed with an assault rifle and opened fire. Officers from both the U.S. Border Patrol and the McAllen Police Department immediately engaged, returning fire and ultimately fatally striking the suspect.
One McAllen police officer, 10-year veteran Ismael Garcia, was injured during the exchange. Officer Garcia was struck in the knee and transported to a nearby hospital where he is now recovering. Rodriguez expressed gratitude that Garcia’s injuries were not life-threatening and commended the officer’s courage under fire.
“This morning’s incident is a sobering reminder that we must remain vigilant at all times,” Rodriguez said. “Our priority is the safety of our community and our officers, and this incident tested that resolve.”
Investigators recovered additional assault-style weapons and ammunition inside the suspect’s vehicle, indicating the potential for even greater harm had authorities not acted swiftly. Spray-painted messages were also discovered on the exterior of the vehicle.
While officials have not disclosed the exact contents of the graffiti, they acknowledged it may hold clues about the motive behind the attack. At this stage, however, authorities have not made a determination on whether the writings were symbolic, ideological, or related to a specific agenda.
Chief Rodriguez noted that Mosqueda had connections to the region. He was reported missing from a Weslaco address at approximately 4 a.m. — just two hours before the shooting. Weslaco is located roughly 18 miles east of McAllen. Rodriguez declined to elaborate on the nature of Mosqueda’s ties to the area, citing the ongoing investigation.
At this time, no clear motive has been identified. Rodriguez emphasized that it is too early to determine whether the attack constituted an act of terrorism. The FBI has taken over the investigation, as the case involves an assault on a federal installation and officers. Federal agents will work to piece together Mosqueda’s background, travel history, and possible affiliations in an effort to uncover what led to the deadly encounter.
As a result of the shooting, McAllen International Airport — located near the site of the incident — was placed on temporary lockdown. Flights were grounded or delayed for several hours while authorities secured the area and ensured there was no additional threat. Operations have since resumed.
The attack has sent shockwaves through the Rio Grande Valley, a region already accustomed to heightened border security. Local leaders are urging calm as they await more details from federal investigators. Meanwhile, the community rallies behind Officer Garcia and the broader law enforcement family, grateful for the quick actions that likely prevented further tragedy.
Reporting in the Rio Grande Valley is supported in part by the Methodist Healthcare Ministries of South Texas, Inc.
