Inspector Timothy Cal McCaghren

Inspector Timothy Cal McCaghren

United States Department of the Treasury - United States Customs Service, U.S. Government

End of Watch Monday, February 19, 1990

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Timothy Cal McCaghren

Inspector Timothy McCaghren was killed when he was dragged by a van he and another inspector were attempting to search at the Ysleta Port of Entry near El Paso, Texas.

The driver of the van accelerated as Inspector McCaghren began to search it. He was thrown from the van and suffered fatal injuries as it turned from Zaragoza Road onto Border Highway. He succumbed to his injuries the following day.

The driver of the van was apprehended five days later. He was convicted of first-degree murder and was sentenced to 50 years in prison.

Inspector McCaghren was a U.S. Army veteran of the Vietnam War and had served with the United States Customs Service for two years. He was survived by his wife, daughter, son, and parents.

The Timothy C. McCaghren Customs Administration Building at the Ysleta Port of Entry in El Paso was named in his memory.

Bio

  • Age 35
  • Tour 2 years
  • Badge Not available
  • Military Veteran

Incident Details

  • Cause Vehicular assault
  • Location Texas
  • Incident Date Sunday, February 18, 1990
  • Weapon Automobile
  • Offender Sentenced to 50 years

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Most Recent Reflection

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Thank you God for his life.
Traveling with our Mom and Dad to Texas to visit Tim at his home base, we had the honor of meeting some of his compatriots beside whom he served proudly.
His loss was a loss for us all.
A true warrior for good. A life bursting with hope and love. He was an overcomer, a leader, a caring soul, a beloved son.
In 1990, my understanding is that custom agents in El Paso did not carry arms.
Tim’s ultimate sacrifice helped to create awareness for increased protection and security.
In 1996, the Timothy C. McCaghren Customs Administration Building at the Ysleta Port of Entry in El Paso, Texas, was named in his memory by an act of Congress and the signature of President Clinton.
Thessalonians 4:13-14

Deborah McCaghren Taber, MSN NP
Sister

December 11, 2022

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