Rio Grande City, Texas – The Texas Department of Public Safety arrested a confirmed Gulf Cartel member in Starr County as part of a joint operation with the United States Border Patrol during Operation Lone Star.

On Tuesday, February 24, 2026, just after 4:30 p.m., a DPS trooper attempted to stop a silver Chevy Blazer for a traffic violation on US 83. The driver, Juan Gonzalez, 24, of Rio Grande City, refused to stop, triggering a high-speed pursuit.

The vehicle eventually stopped near a residence, where Gonzalez and three passengers fled toward the rear of the property. Troopers quickly located and apprehended all four. The passengers were identified as three illegal immigrants from El Salvador and Mexico and referred to Border Patrol.

Gonzalez was charged with three counts of smuggling of persons and evading arrest. Further investigation by DPS’ Criminal Investigations Division and Homeland Security Investigations confirmed Gonzalez as a Gulf Cartel member with ties to the cartel operating in Miguel Aleman, Mexico.

The United States Attorney’s Office for the Southern District of Texas filed federal charges. Gonzalez was taken into federal custody following his arrest.

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