On June 27, 2022, a horrifying human smuggling operation ended in the deaths of 53 migrants in what became internationally known as the San Antonio trailer migrants dead tragedy. It was the deadliest incident of its kind in U.S. history.
The tragedy underscores the extreme risks migrants take and the criminal indifference of human smuggling organizations.
— What happened, legal updates, and resources for families
On June 27, 2022, an abandoned tractor-trailer was discovered in southwest San Antonio containing dozens of migrants; the final death toll reached 53 people, and many more were hospitalized after suffering heat-related injuries in the sealed, airless trailer.
Key facts
- Date & place: June 27, 2022 — near San Antonio, Texas.
- Deaths & injuries: 53 dead; multiple survivors treated for heat stroke and related injuries.
- Nationalities: victims from Mexico, Guatemala, Honduras, and El Salvador.
- Circumstances: sealed trailer, no AC, extreme heat; victims were unable to breathe or access water.
Legal & investigative updates
Federal investigations produced multiple indictments, guilty pleas, and convictions of people involved in the smuggling operation; several defendants received lengthy sentences during hearings through 2025.
Resources for families
- Contact San Antonio Police Department and the home-country consulate immediately.
- Use DOJ/ICE victim-notification and repatriation contacts; keep any identifying documents ready.
- Seek legal help for repatriation and civil claims where appropriate.