Rising Fatalities and Response
The number of migrant deaths in near the U.S.-Mexico border has increased dramatically, with 108 presumed migrants found dead in the first eight months of 2024, a tenfold rise compared to five years ago.
In response to the surge in fatalities, the University of New Mexico’s Office of the Medical Investigator has expanded its team to handle the additional cases, highlighting the strain on resources due to the increased death toll.
Humanitarian Concerns and Efforts
Advocates express concern over the humanitarian crisis, noting that many migrants die close to urban areas, suggesting that improved rescue efforts and infrastructure could help mitigate the fatalities.
Efforts to combat human-smuggling networks and provide aid to migrants include recent arrests, the deployment of surveillance technology by U.S. Customs and Border Protection, and community initiatives to deliver water to migrants in perilous conditions.