The southern border crisis is claiming lives at a staggering rate. Hundreds of women, dozens of children, and thousands of illegals overall have died trying to cross into the United States. New data analyzed by Newsweek highlights the severity of the issue, with some regions along the border becoming especially deadly. The Del Rio Sector in Texas saw 257 deaths in just one year.
Tom Homan, former acting director of Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) and now Donald Trump’s proposed “border czar,” is unapologetically hardline on immigration policies. For Homan, securing the border isn’t just a priority—it’s a mission.
“People are dying because our borders are not secure,” Homan told Newsweek. He stressed that the current policies encourage illegal crossings into treacherous terrain. “We need strong measures to protect lives. This isn’t just about sovereignty; it’s about humanity.”
Deaths Surge, Women and Children at High Risk
The CBP data reviewed by Newsweek paints a grim picture. Over 500 women have died since 2021, with the Del Rio and El Paso sectors being particularly hazardous. James Holeman of Battalion Search and Rescue described the harsh reality: “Girls as young as 16. Pregnant women. Most of them are just trying to survive, and they end up as statistics.”
Children are not spared either. At least 19 under the age of 10 have died since 2016, and the numbers keep climbing. CBP points to extreme terrain, smugglers’ lies, and perilous conditions as key factors.
Homan’s Solution: Tougher Policies
Homan is clear on his approach. He backs the return of the “Remain in Mexico” policy, which forces asylum seekers to wait outside the U.S. while their claims are processed. He also supports finishing the border wall. “The wall saves lives,” Homan argues. “If they can’t cross, they don’t die in the desert or drown in canals.”
Critics, however, say these policies force migrants into even more dangerous routes. Bryce Peterson of No More Deaths told Newsweek, “We’ve become desensitized to the idea of people dying out there. It’s not just a border problem—it’s a humanitarian crisis.”
Fixable Issues Ignored?
Advocates argue that small changes could save lives. For instance, providing bridges over deadly canals near El Paso or ensuring cell phone reception for migrants to call for help. But Peterson is skeptical of government action. “Border Patrol undercounts deaths. Agencies resist transparency,” he said.
Homan has dismissed these criticisms as distractions. “The focus needs to be on deterring illegal crossings,” he said. He sees himself as a soldier in the fight for border security and has no intention of softening his stance.
The Human Cost
The CBP and Homan emphasize the risks of illegal migration, but the data reveals an undeniable human cost. Women, children, and entire families are dying in their pursuit of a better life. Newsweek’s analysis raises tough questions: Is there a way to balance security with compassion? Or is the hardline approach the only way forward?
For Homan, the answer is clear. “If we don’t secure the border, this will continue. It’s tragic, but it’s preventable. We have to act.” His words may strike some as harsh, but for supporters, they are a necessary truth.