Texas first responders warned to watch for Tren de Aragua gang violence

A series of high-profile arrests of Tren de Aragua gang members has occurred in major cities across Texas. The arrests are raising concerns about public safety and the safety of first responders.

In San Antonio, a massive raid over the weekend of Oct. 5, targeted 300 apartment units following reports of drug activity, human trafficking, and threats to apartment employees. Nineteen people were arrested, including four confirmed gang members.

The threat of gang violence prompted the San Antonio Firefighters Union to issue a warning to its members at two fire stations near a known gang activity hotspot, just a few blocks from a migrant resource center.

The union advised firefighters to “keep your head on a swivel” and “watch your six.” Members of the firefighters union respond to emergency calls unarmed and without police escort, according to the union.

San Antonio's police chief vowed to crack down on gang activity .

Meanwhile, in Dallas, authorities confirmed that a suspect in a violent gang robbery is a Tren de Aragua member .

In late September, Wilmer Gonzalez allegedly orchestrated an attack on a woman, following her into her garage, pistol-whipping her, threatening to sever her fingers, and stealing her valuables. He crossed the southern border in April 2023 and was released with a court date, according to homeland security sources who spoke with The New York Post .

In Houston, a wanted Tren de Aragua gang member was arrested on Monday, Oct. 7, the same day he was expected to appear in court for his asylum hearing. The member was wanted for theft and identified by a tipster through tattoos linked to the gang .

As part of the state’s ongoing efforts to combat gang violence, the Texas Department of Public Safety is offering rewards of up to $5,000 for information leading to the arrest of known or suspected members of Tren de Aragua.

Last month, Texas Gov. Greg Abbott declared the gang a terrorist organization .

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