Illegal migrants in California are attempting to board school buses, raising significant safety concerns.
At a Glance
- Two school bus routes in Jamul-Dulzura Union School District interrupted by migrants.
- Incident locations: Route A near Highway 94 and Cochera Via; Route B involved about 20 people.
- Safety measures involve rerouting buses and parental awareness.
- Local authorities investigating for possible criminal activity.
School Bus Incidents in Jamul-Dulzura Union School District
Two school bus routes in California’s Jamul-Dulzura Union School District recently experienced interruptions as illegal migrants attempted to board the buses. On Route A, three men tried to stop a bus near Highway 94 and Cochera Via. On Route B, around 20 migrants gathered, with parents stepping in to ensure the safety of the students.
No injuries were reported to students, district staff, or migrants involved in the incidents. The school district has informed the U.S. Border Patrol, California Highway Patrol, and San Diego County Sheriff’s Department. The San Diego Sheriff’s Office is conducting an investigation to determine if any criminal activity took place.
Migrants attempt to board school buses in East County https://t.co/PRaMyliB3A
— FOX 5 San Diego (@fox5sandiego) August 29, 2024
Safety Measures Implemented
The district has taken immediate safety measures to prevent further incidents. School buses will now bypass stops where migrants are present and will proceed to the next scheduled stop. Families are advised to follow the bus if it does not stop. The director of maintenance and operations is also monitoring all bus routes to ensure safety for students and drivers.
“The San Diego Sheriff’s Office was made aware of this incident today. We are conducting a follow up investigation to determine if a criminal act has occurred. The Sheriff’s Office takes issues regarding student safety very seriously and are working with the school district in order to keep the students and our community safe,” – Kimberly King
Further complicating the issue is the influx of migrants released by border authorities onto San Diego streets. Thousands of migrants are left without direction or assistance, straining local nonprofits and community resources. From September to November, over 42,000 people were released in San Diego County.
Community and Government Response
The San Diego County Board of Supervisors has allocated $3 million in federal COVID-19 relief funds to support migrant services. However, these funds are expected to run out by the end of December. The Board will vote soon to request an additional $3 million for a new welcome center. Supervisor Jim Desmond opposed the initial allocation, arguing that immigration is a federal responsibility.
“What the federal government should do is allow as many asylum seekers across the border that they can manage,” Desmond said. “What they’re doing is they’re allowing more than they can manage.”
Community organizations, including nonprofits and faith groups, have been pivotal in providing support, but they face overwhelming demand. Many have spent significant amounts on flights and other essential services for migrants. State funding has been allocated to several large San Diego County nonprofits, such as Jewish Family Service and Catholic Charities, to support these efforts.
The Bigger Picture of Immigration
Kevin Mendoza, a migrant from Ecuador, is one of many residing in a San Diego shelter while awaiting his asylum court hearing. He migrated due to increased crime and violence in his home country, including the assassination of a presidential candidate. His journey involved crossing the Darién Gap rainforest and traversing Central America before surrendering to immigration officials in El Paso, Texas
U.S. Customs and Border Protection has been relocating migrants from Texas to San Diego, adding to the strain on local shelters. Vulnerable migrants, including women, children, disabled individuals, and LGBTQ persons, are directed to shelters managed by local faith-based organizations. State investments, such as a $150 million allotment from the 2023-2024 budget, aim to fund shelter services and provide ongoing support.
