Austin News

U.S. Senators John Cornyn (R-TX), Kyrsten Sinema (I-AZ), Ted Cruz (R-TX), and Joe Manchin (I-WV) have introduced the James R. Dominguez Memorial Act. This bill aims to rename the U.S. Border Patrol checkpoint on U.S. Highway 90 West in Uvalde County, Texas, after James Ray Dominguez, a Border Patrol agent who was killed on duty on July 19, 2012.

“Agent Dominguez was a courageous officer, loving father, and devoted public servant who tragically died while serving his fellow Texans,” said Sen. Cornyn. “I’m proud to support the renaming of this Border Patrol checkpoint in his honor as a reminder of his impressive legacy as not only a respected agent but also a good Texan who served his community selflessly and humbly.”

“Renaming this Border Patrol checkpoint in Uvalde County honors Agent James Dominguez’s bravery, courage, and sacrifice. We are forever grateful for his service,” said Sen. Sinema.

“Agent Dominguez was a patriot, a dedicated public servant, and a devoted husband and father. His legacy will continue to inspire the men and women of our Border Patrol to serve with the same selflessness. I am proud to join my colleagues in memorializing his memory by naming the Border Patrol checkpoint in Uvalde in his honor,” said Sen. Cruz.

“James Dominguez served as a Border Patrol agent for more than 12 years, working tirelessly each day to safeguard the American people and our homeland,” said Sen. Manchin. “It is my honor to join my colleagues on this bipartisan legislation commemorating his legacy by renaming a U.S. Border Patrol Checkpoint in Uvalde, Texas after him.”

The legislation was led in the U.S. House of Representatives by Congressman Tony Gonzales (TX-23) and passed on May 21, 2024.

Background:

Agent James Ray Dominguez served with the U.S. Border Patrol from 2000 to 2012. On July 19, 2012, he stopped to assist a stranded motorist with a flat tire and was struck by a passing vehicle while helping clear debris along U.S. Highway 90 West near Cline, Texas; he tragically passed away as a result of the incident. He was assigned to the U.S. Border Patrol’s Uvalde Station in the Del Rio Sector and is survived by his wife and four children.