James Holeman : “Desert Migrant Death Toll: Volunteers Struggle to Count”

Accident – Death – Obituary News :

Investigation Reveals Record-High Border-Crossing Deaths in the Desert

In a recent report obtained by Salon, shocking details have emerged about the escalating number of deaths among migrants attempting to cross the US-Mexico border. The report, compiled by volunteer groups like Battalion Search and Rescue, paints a grim picture of the dangers faced by those seeking to enter the United States.

Uncovering the Truth

Volunteers like James Holeman, founder of Battalion Search and Rescue, have been tirelessly combing the desert at Organ Pipe National Monument, discovering the scattered remains of migrants who perished during their journey. The findings include skeletal remains, personal belongings, and heartbreaking evidence of lives lost in pursuit of a better future.

A Grim Reality

According to data from U.S. Customs and Border Protection, over 8,000 people have died while illegally crossing the Southwestern border between fiscal year 1998 and 2020. While Border Patrol has not publicly released data on migrant deaths since fiscal year 2021, Salon has obtained a recent report that lists a staggering 895 reported deaths during fiscal year 2022 alone.

A Tragic Undercount

Despite the record-breaking numbers of migrant encounters at the border, the reported deaths are believed to be a significant undercount. Volunteer groups like Battalion Search and Rescue have been instrumental in uncovering the true extent of the crisis, with recent hikes through the desert yielding the discovery of seven sets of skeletal remains in just a small section of the Tucson corridor.

Volunteers Making a Difference

Battalion Search and Rescue, named after the historic San Patricio Battalion, is comprised of dedicated volunteers who risk their lives to recover the remains of migrants and provide lifesaving aid. These volunteers, including military veterans and former migrants themselves, understand the importance of their work in bringing closure to grieving families.

The Harsh Realities of the Desert

The desert terrain poses numerous risks to migrants, from extreme temperatures to dangerous wildlife. Many perish due to simple yet deadly factors like blisters, dehydration, and exposure. The desert, as Holeman aptly puts it, “erases people” over time, leaving behind only scattered remains that tell a haunting story of lost lives.

A Call for Action

As the number of migrant deaths continues to rise, there is a pressing need for greater awareness and action. Volunteer groups, medical examiners, and mapping coordinators are working tirelessly to document and honor the lives lost in the desert. But the true extent of the tragedy remains unknown, leaving many questions unanswered.

As we reflect on the heartbreaking reality of migrant deaths in the desert, it is clear that more must be done to prevent further loss of life and bring justice to those who have perished in search of a better future.

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