local
Data: Migrant encounters on Southwest border up 11% in May
By Sandra Sanchez at Yourbasin / Big 2 KMID + Fox 24 KPEJ (Nexstar)
· June 20, 2026
· 1 min read
The number of migrants encounted by U.S. Border Patrol agents was nearly 10,000 in May, up 11% from April, and the Rio Grande Valley Sector had the most trying to cross the border into the United States, new data released Friday shows.
Key takeaway Border Patrol agents was nearly 10,000 in May, up 11% from April, and the Rio Grande Valley Sector had the most trying to cross the border into the United States, new data released Friday shows.
Why this matters in The Odessa
The recent increase in migrant encounters on the Southwest border has significant implications for the Odessa community. As the Permian Basin continues to grow and attract new residents, the strain on local resources and infrastructure could be exacerbated by the rising number of migrants passing through the region. With the Rio Grande Valley Sector experiencing the highest number of border crossings, it's likely that some of these individuals will make their way to Odessa, seeking work in the area's thriving oil and gas industry. This could lead to increased demands on local social services, healthcare, and law enforcement, highlighting the need for coordinated efforts between city officials, community organizations, and federal agencies to address the complex issues surrounding migration and border security. The impact of this trend will be closely watched by local leaders and residents, who will be looking for effective solutions to manage the potential consequences.
About this story
Original reporting by Yourbasin / Big 2 KMID + Fox 24 KPEJ (Nexstar) . The Odessa surfaces reporting from trusted publishers and adds local editorial context so readers can quickly understand what a story means for their community. We attribute every source, link to the original report, and follow a documented editorial standards policy. To understand how stories are selected and reviewed, read our about page .
For the complete original report, visit Yourbasin / Big 2 KMID + Fox 24 KPEJ (Nexstar) . Have a tip or correction? Contact our newsroom .
Category: local ·
Published: June 20, 2026 ·
Source: Yourbasin / Big 2 KMID + Fox 24 KPEJ (Nexstar) ·
Reading time: 1 min
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Frequently asked about this story
What is this story about? The number of migrants encounted by U.S. Border Patrol agents was nearly 10,000 in May, up 11% from April, and the Rio Grande Valley Sector had the most trying to cross the border into the United States, new data released Friday shows.
When was this published? This article was first published on June 20, 2026 by Yourbasin / Big 2 KMID + Fox 24 KPEJ (Nexstar) and curated for The Odessa readers.
Who reported this story? This story was reported by Sandra Sanchez at Yourbasin / Big 2 KMID + Fox 24 KPEJ (Nexstar). To learn more about how The Odessa selects and reviews stories, see our editorial standards .
Where can I find related coverage? See more local coverage from The Odessa, or browse our daily briefing and topic hubs .
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