Multiple agencies responsible for canal where teen drowned near Mercedes

Added: 2026-06-01

[00:00:00]Continuing coverage. Channel 5 has learned the canal where a Progresso ISD student drowned this week is privately owned. We also learned enforcement around the property is handled by several agencies.

[00:00:11]>> Channel 5's Karen Rosettto is live near the canal with what we've learned today.

[00:00:15]Karen, >> we are back out here in the Mercedes area off of Mile One West. We continue to ask questions today about who's responsible for this canal and the rules posted around it. Now, there are two gates right here that are blocking the entrance to the canal. On the other on the other side off of Highway 491, there's a no trespassing sign posted.

[00:00:42]Now, since we've been out here, we've seen about three people come out here and fish. As soon as they saw the cameras, they left. There's two kids actually here that left fishing. They actually crossed the gate. Now, today, Idalgo and Cameron County's irrigation district number nine told me the canal is privately owned and maintained by the irrigation district. Irrigation officials also say fishing along the canal is not allowed. We also learned Texas Parks and Wildlife and local law enforcement are supposed to stop trespassors in the area. A vast if more warning signs or security measures around the canal will be added, but we have not yet received a response. As Channel 5 News reported yesterday, 17-year-old Samuel Ernnandez drowned here while fishing with friends.

[00:01:29]Ernnandez went into the water after a fishing line got stuck in the canal. His body was found yesterday morning after an overnight search. We also learned tonight's Proeso ISD school board meeting has been cancelled in light of the teen's death. The district says counseling and support services are being offered at Progresso High School for anyone who may need it. Live in county, Karen Lucero, Channel 5 News at 6.