TUCSON, Ariz. – Tucson Sector’s Border Patrol Search Trauma and Rescue (BORSTAR) agents rendered aid to one individual hiking with a group in a remote area of the Organ Pipe Cactus National Monument on Sunday afternoon.
The Ajo Border Patrol Station received a 9-1-1 call from a member of the “Angeles Del Desierto” group, requesting medical assistance for a 55-year-old male reporter hiking with the group in a remote mountain pass southwest of Ajo.
Agents at the station obtained the caller’s location using coordinates from the 9-1-1 system and relayed the information to BORSTAR agents in the field. When BORSTAR agents arrived at the location shortly after 3 p.m., they conducted medical evaluations on the distressed hikers but determined only the reporter needed further medical care.
After agents treated the man for dehydration with intravenous fluids, he declined further care and was able to depart the area with the group.
Due to the extreme heat, Tucson Sector Border Patrol officials continue to warn that summer is an especially dangerous time to be stranded in Arizona’s desert. Anyone in need of emergency assistance should call 9-1-1 immediately as dehydration can be deadly if not treated.