A man has been extradited from Canada and faced arraignment on Thursday regarding human smuggling allegations linked to the tragic death of a 33-year-old pregnant woman. Ana Vasquez-Flores, originally from Mexico, was discovered deceased in the Great Chazy River, located just south of the Canadian border, after crossing illegally into the United States, as reported by federal authorities. Her body was located on December 14, 2023, following her husband’s report to U.S. border agents that she had crossed the border without authorization and had gone missing. Search teams later tracked footprints in the snow that led to the river, where it is believed she drowned.

The unfortunate incident involving Vasquez-Flores occurred amid an increase in migrant crossings into New York and New England from Canada. Her story exemplifies the grave risks that migrants often face when navigating the challenging and sometimes perilous terrain along the U.S.-Canada border, especially during harsh weather conditions.

Jhader Augusto Uribe-Tobar, aged 36, has been accused by federal prosecutors of facilitating Vasquez-Flores’ entry into the U.S. He allegedly charged her $2,500 and directed her to traverse the river at night, a move that has raised serious concerns about the practices of smugglers. Uribe-Tobar has pleaded not guilty to charges of alien smuggling and conspiracy to commit the same offense, and he remains in custody while awaiting trial. Federal prosecutors have indicated that he is a Colombian citizen and currently resides in Quebec, Canada.

U.S. Attorney Carla Freedman emphasized in a statement that this unfortunate event underscores the inherent dangers associated with illegal migration. She highlighted how, according to allegations, smugglers recklessly endanger lives for financial gain. Meanwhile, Uribe-Tobar’s public defender has refrained from making any comments regarding the case.