THE PROJECT
This site is a living, breathing, growing online collection of stories, photos, video and other documentation of the May 14, 2003, death of 19 illegal immigrants. Each month — in some cases each day — this collection will be added to. As the Victoria Advocate's investigation into the tragedy continues, so, too, will the growth of this online collection. At the completion of this multi-month project, it is the Advocate's goal to have created the most comprehensive account of the tragedy.
WHAT IS THE FATAL FUNNEL?
From separate points on the U.S.-Mexico border, two highways begin. They wind through south Texas to Victoria County and beyond.
One roadway – U.S. Highway 59 – begins on the U.S. side of Nuevo Laredo. The other – U.S. Highway 77 – begins this side of Matamoros.
Victoria County Sheriff T. Michael O’Connor, whose department chases crime on both , dubbed the channel the roadways form the Fatal Funnel.
O’Connor cites the human, drugs, weapons and money smuggling – and the desperation-laden death in the funnel – as reason to name it as such.
Natural borders make the funnel a logical route for immigrants and smugglers. A gulf borders this funnel on its east side, and a treacherous desert touches it from the west. While dangerous, this funnel is often the straightest path to Houston, a destination for many immigrants and a launching point for trips further inland for others.
