A Yuma Sector Border Patrol agent discharged his service-issued weapon while being assaulted by an adult male who crossed illegally into the United States near Somerton, Arizona, last night at approximately 10:00 p.m.
“During the arrest, the subject grabbed the agent’s radio and collapsible steel baton and began striking him in the face and head while he also attempted to remove the Agent’s sidearm from its holster. The agent, fearing for his life, discharged his weapon, which struck the suspect.
Both the agent and suspect were transported to Yuma Regional Medical Center via ambulance, where medical professionals were unable to resuscitate the suspect and he was pronounced dead.
The agent sustained multiple bruises and lacerations to his head, face and torso, one of which required stitches to close the wound. He was also diagnosed with a concussion.
In accordance with CBP Policy, the agent has been placed on administrative leave.
Customs and Border Protection’s Use of Force Incident Team, the lead investigative agency, was assisted by the Federal Bureau of Investigation in processing the scene. The U.S. Border Patrol is fully cooperating with this investigation.”