Tucson Sector Border Patrol agents rescued and arrested a man March 9 wanted for murder by the Maricopa County Sheriff’s Office.
After a man activated a rescue beacon near Ajo, Arizona, agents, including a Border Patrol agent certified as an Emergency Medical Technician, responded to the location and provided aid while awaiting transport to a local hospital.
The man was treated for his injuries and released from the hospital into Border Patrol custody. While processing the man for entering the United States illegally, records checks revealed an active warrant for murder out of Maricopa County. Agents processed the man for extradition, according to Tucson Sector guidelines.
A Border Patrol rescue beacon is a tower located in secluded areas of the desert that people can activate when in distress. Once activated, a signal is sent to the Border Patrol who then dispatches agents to provide assistance.
There are currently 32 beacons deployed throughout Tucson Sector. Rescue beacons are comprised of solar charging systems, highly reflective rotating devices, and high intensity blue strobe lights on top of 25’ tall masts. The rescue beacons can be spotted from over 8 miles away.
Border Patrol agents often put their own safety on the line in harsh terrain and during extreme weather conditions in order to rescue people in distress. Tucson Sector has more than 4,000 agents trained as first responders, including 250 EMTs and 15 paramedics.
Customs and Border Protection also 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.