Read more: Local, International, Crime, Mexico, Crime, Violence, Rio Grande Valley, Texas
Every week there's news of more violence in Mexico.
"I think Mexico has a big problem with these drug lords,” said Jim Lofgren, Valley resident.
And, the number of crimes are on the rise.
Last year more than 5,300 people were killed and 789 were kidnapped as a result of drug related crimes.
In October, an attack in Matamoros including assault riffles and grenades, injured several people.
These alarming numbers have driven some valley residents to take extra precaution.
"I was planning on driving as a matter of fact but the locals including some of my relatives who are locals advised me not to drive,” said Mr. Lofgren.
"Usually when we go it's just to Progresso because it's close to the border, it's populated so I don't think much violence would happen there,” said Raul Garcia, Valley resident.
The fear, now, is will this violence spill over into the valley.
"I think the Mexican cartels are strong and there's a power struggle between them and I think it's going come over the border,” said Mr. Lofgren.
"The ones that are really in danger are the border patrols and any security people around the border,” said Mr. Garcia.
It's a problem that has the federal government concerned.
The U.S. Department of homeland security recently announced that it plans to send over federal agents and military personnel if the drug violence spills in the United States.
"I wish it didn't have to get taken that far I wish our local infrastructure as far as law enforcement would be able to handle it,” said Michael Courtney, Valley resident.
"I think the thread of moving us troops to the valley might be a stretch I think the border patrol can handle it,” said Mr. Lofgren.
In the meantime, violent crimes continue sweeping Mexico.
