Agents Rescue Couple in Distress with Assistance from Air & Marine Operations

TUCSON Tucson Sector Border Patrol agents from the Douglas Station rescued two Mexican nationals with assistance from Air and Marine Operations northeast of Douglas, Arizona.

Agents responded to a 9-1-1 call and requested support from Air and Marine Operations help locate the lost couple. An AMO helicopter deployed and located the distressed couple more than seven miles north of the border and guided agents to their location. Border Patrol agents trained as Emergency Medical Technicians responded and began medical treatment. Agents carried the 43-year-old female to an awaiting ambulance for transportation to a Tucson area hospital for treatment.

After receiving medical care, the woman will be processed for immigration violations. The 44-year-old Mexican man encountered with the female did not require medical treatment and will be processed for immigration violations in accordance to Tucson Sector guidelines

Although temperatures have dropped, individuals crossing the border illegally continue to face environmental dangers such as hypothermia. Border Patrol encourages anyone in distress to call 9-1-1, or activate a rescue beacon, before becoming a casualty. Illegal entry into the U.S. is unsafe and those who take the risk put themselves in mortal danger.

U.S. Customs and Border Protection officials welcome assistance from the community. Citizens can report suspicious activity to the Border Patrol and remain anonymous by calling 1-877-872-7435 toll free.