Tucson Sector Border Patrol Rescues U.S. Citizen

Tucson, Ariz. – Tucson Sector Border Patrol agents working in the west desert last night rescued a U.S. citizen who was lost and disoriented in the vicinity of Lukeville, Ariz., east of Highway 85.

The Border Patrol received a forwarded 911 call from a man stating he was lost and in need of assistance. Ajo Station agents and a National Park Service officer, an emergency medical technician, located the man who was exhibiting signs of dehydration. After rendering first aid and evaluating his condition, they determined he needed further medical treatment. He was transported to a local hospital by paramedics and treated for severe dehydration and chest pains.

The Sonoran desert is always dangerous. Even during cooler months, people are vulnerable to dehydration. Temperatures can drop to freezing in the winter and soar to 120 degrees Fahrenheit in the summer. Cold or hot, people stranded in the desert are at risk of death or illness due to exposure. The U.S. Border Patrol is committed to working closely with federal, state and local partners to prevent loss of life and injury in the desert.

Customs and Border Protection welcomes assistance from the community. Citizens can report suspicious activity to the Border Patrol and remain anonymous by calling (877) 872-7435 toll free.

U.S. Customs and Border Protection is the unified border agency within the Department of Homeland Security charged with the management, control and protection of our nation's borders at and between the official ports of entry. CBP is charged with keeping terrorists and terrorist weapons out of the country while enforcing hundreds of U.S. laws.