Austin News

November 22, 2024

AUSTIN – The U.S. Senate has passed the James R. Dominguez Memorial Act, a bill introduced by Senators John Cornyn and Ted Cruz, both from Texas. This legislation aims to rename the U.S. Border Patrol checkpoint on U.S. Highway 90 West in Uvalde County in honor of James Ray Dominguez, a Border Patrol agent who died on July 19, 2012.

“Agent Dominguez was a courageous officer, loving father, and devoted public servant who tragically died while working to protect his fellow Texans,” said Senator Cornyn. “I’m grateful to my Senate colleagues for their support of this legislation to rename a Border Patrol checkpoint in Agent Dominguez’s 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.”

Senator Cruz added, “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.”

The bill also received sponsorship from Senators Kyrsten Sinema and Joe Manchin. In the House of Representatives, Congressman Tony Gonzales led the effort where it passed on May 21, 2024. The bill now awaits the President's signature.

James Ray Dominguez served with the U.S. Border Patrol from 2000 until his death in 2012. He was assisting a stranded motorist when he was struck by another vehicle near Cline, Texas. At that time, he was assigned to the Uvalde Station within the Del Rio Sector. He is survived by his wife and four children.