U.S. Border Patrol Shooting in Arizona Leaves One Wounded
A shooting incident involving the U.S. Border Patrol in Arizona has left one person critically injured. The event occurred on Tuesday near the U.S.-Mexico border, specifically near Arivaca.
Details of the Incident
Emergency services from the Santa Rita Fire District and American Medical Response responded to reports of a shooting around 7:30 a.m. The location was identified as milepost 15 on West Arivaca Road.
- Time of Incident: 7:00 a.m.
- Response Time: Emergency teams arrived shortly after 7:30 a.m.
- Status of Injured: Victim in critical condition and airlifted to a trauma center
Upon arrival, responders discovered one individual in custody and in critical condition. Medical care was promptly administered before the patient was airlifted to a regional trauma center.
Investigations Underway
The FBI is investigating what it describes as “an alleged assault on a federal officer” connected to the shooting. A spokesperson for the FBI confirmed that the suspect had been taken into custody.
The Pima County Sheriff’s Department is also involved in the investigation, working alongside the FBI and Customs and Border Protection (CBP). The sheriff’s department noted that it would lead the inquiry into the use of force by the Border Patrol agent involved in the incident.
Authorities’ Statements
Pima County Sheriff Chris Nanos scheduled a press conference for 4 p.m. local time to provide updates on the situation. The FBI is expected to participate in this conference. However, the Border Patrol and its parent agency, CBP, did not offer immediate comments regarding the incident.
Background Information
Arivaca Road is approximately 25 miles from the international border and about 20 miles from the center of the unincorporated community of Arivaca. This area has long been a hotspot for border enforcement activities.
In a related note, incidents involving Border Patrol agents have raised concerns in recent years. In 2023, there was another use-of-force incident linked to a human smuggling investigation in the same vicinity. Historical data indicates that back in 2003, a shooting by a Border Patrol agent also resulted in injuries near Arivaca, reflecting ongoing tensions in border enforcement efforts.
Conclusion
This recent shooting highlights ongoing issues related to border security and law enforcement. As the investigation continues, both state and federal agencies are committed to uncovering the full details of the events that transpired.
