Off-Duty BP agent dies at SPI saving his daughter

SOUTH PADRE ISLAND, Texas (ValleyCentral) — A Supervisory U.S Border Patrol agent drowned at South Padre Island saving his child, according to U.S. Customs and Border Protection.

South Padre Island officials say on Friday, at approximately 2:40 p.m., emergency services responded to the 1600 block of South Padre Island following a report of a swimmer in distress.

According to witnesses, Agent Eric Cespedes, 37, of San Benito was near the first sandbar attempting to pull his child, who was caught in a strong rip current during a family trip at the beach.

Bystanders helped bring Cespedes' daughter to shore while others carried out Cespedes as well.

CPR was done on Agent Cespedes by bystanders and the SPI Beach Patrol.

Cespedes was transported to a local hospital, where he was pronounced deceased.

“He was a protector both in uniform and at home,” said Rio Grande Valley Sector Chief Patrol Agent Gloria I. Chavez.

“His final act was that of a Hero and a testament to the unwavering love he carried for his children and family. We will always remember Eric as our brother in green, and his courage will never be forgotten.”

According to CBP, a memorial service to honor Agent Cespedes' legacy will be announced in the coming days.