A Texas trucker charged with the death of 53 migrants in a tractor-trailer without air conditioning, pleaded guilty on Thursday. The 2022 tragedy became the nation’s most deadly smuggling effort across the U.S. Mexico border.
Homero Zamorano Jr. who lived in Texas pleaded guilty on three counts: one of conspiracy to transport aliens that resulted in death and serious bodily injuries, as well as placing lives at risk; one of transportation aliens that resulted in death; and finally, one of transportation aliens which caused serious bodily injuries and placed lives at risk. The Justice Department said that the 48-year old could receive a maximum prison sentence of life.
Mark Stevens said that Zamorano’s lawyer was unable comment on the case because it is still pending. Zamorano’s sentencing is set for April 24.
The authorities say Zamorano who drove the truck , and other men charged with the smuggling effort were aware of the malfunctioning air conditioning unit in the trailer and that it would not blow cold air to the trapped migrants during the three-hour journey from Laredo border city to San Antonio.
Investigators reported that temperatures reached 100 degrees Fahrenheit as migrants screamed, banged on the walls or clawed their way out.
According to Mexican authorities, the truck was packed with 67 passengers, including 27 Mexicans, 14 Hondurans, seven Guatemalans and two El Salvadorians. According to prosecutors, migrants paid as much as $15,000 per person to cross the border.
On June 27, 2022, the incident occurred on a backroad in San Antonio. According to a U.S. Attorney’s Office statement, police officers arrested Zamorano when they spotted him hiding in nearby bush. Zamorano made calls about the smuggling operation, according to a search of his cellphone.
According to the indictment, surveillance video showed that the driver of the 18 wheeler as it passed through a Border Patrol Checkpoint matched Zamorano’s description.
Christian Martinez of Texas was also charged in the incident. He was arrested with Zamorano shortly after the migrants had been found. Martinez pleaded guilty in the past to charges related to smuggling.
In 2023, four Mexicans were arrested as well. In August, an arrest in Guatemala suspect was charged for helping coordinate the smuggling effort. Rigoberto Miranda Orozco is accused of six counts of migrant trafficking resulting in death and serious injury. Authorities allege that he was connected to the deaths of three Guatemalan migrants who were in the trailer. If convicted, he could face life imprisonment.
