DEL RIO, Texas – A U.S. Border Patrol Agent new hire, on his way to be sworn in at the Del Rio Border Patrol Sector, was the first on scene after witnessing a rollover on Highway 90, Dec. 8.
“This is a perfect example on how important our agents are to the United States borders,” said Del Rio Sector Chief Patrol Agent Raul L. Ortiz. “Often times they are the first to respond and are able to save the lives of those injured. Thanks to the quick response and selfless dedication of this soon-to-be agent, these men were stabilized until EMS could arrive.”
At approximately 6 p.m., Orlando Labra-Avalos, was en route to Del Rio to enter on duty as a Border Patrol Agent, when he witnessed a vehicle rollover near the Shumla Rest Area, 15 miles west of Comstock. He and his parents stopped and rendered first aid to the two male victims involved in the rollover. Labra-Avalos stayed with the victims and tended to their injuries until Comstock Border Patrol Agents, Val Verde Sheriff’s Office Deputies, and Val Verde Emergency Medical Services arrived on scene.
The following morning, Labra-Avalos reported to the Del Rio Sector Headquarters and was sworn in as Border Patrol Agent, along with 16 other new hires. These newly hired agents will now spend the next 117 days in Artesia, New Mexico, attending the Border Patrol Academy before returning to Del Rio Sector to begin their careers.