TUCSON – Tucson Sector Border Patrol, Office of Air and Marine Operations (AMO) and Arizona Department of Public Safety (AZDPS) jointly rescued migrants during three complex operations within the last six weeks in Arizona’s rugged desert.
The first joint rescue occurred on Jan. 8 when a Honduran national was extracted from the bottom of a 400-foot cliff near Three Points. The man was left behind by his traveling partner due to a broken ankle.
Border Patrol Search and Trauma (BORSTAR) agents deployed from an AMO helicopter and located the man in a precarious area. Agents were joined by AZDPS paramedics who helped stabilize the man for transport to a local hospital via an AZDPS helicopter.
The second rescue occurred Feb. 19 when Sonoita Station Border Patrol agents responded to a report of suspected illegal border crossers and found an unconscious man with severe head trauma caused by a fall. Field agents rendered emergency medical treatment to stabilize and keep him alive until BORSTAR agents arrived on scene.
An AZDPS helicopter crew and medic extracted the man, later identified as a Mexican national illegally present in the U.S., and provided additional medical care until transferring him to a Lifeline helicopter for transport to a local hospital.
On Feb. 21, Border Patrol agents encountered a suspected hilltop scout with a broken ankle and head lacerations suffered during his attempt to flee from the agents. Due to the remote location, the scout was air lifted by an AZDPS helicopter and transferred to awaiting EMS services.
The collaboration exhibited by state and federal law enforcement during these rescues demonstrates the quick and efficient use of available resources to rescue anyone in need of help, regardless of their nationality.
Customs and Border Protection welcomes assistance from the community. Citizens can report suspicious activity to the Border Patrol by calling 1-877-872-7435 toll free. All calls will be answered and remain anonymous.
