Tucson, Ariz. – Agents assigned to the Tucson Sector Border Patrol and the Office of Air and Marine’s Yuma Air Branch recently participated in joint efforts to locate a severely injured hiker in the Organ Pipe National Monument Park’s Arch Canyon.
Saturday, at approximately 7 p.m., Ajo Station Border Patrol agents received a call from the National Park Service requesting assistance in locating a female U.S. citizen lost and possibly injured in Arch Canyon. Yuma Air Branch agents responded with an aerial asset to participate in the search.
At approximately 8 p.m., the woman was located by agents and rangers. A ranger paramedic evaluated the hiker’s injuries and determined she needed to be quickly evacuated to a Tucson hospital via Life Flight. The Arizona Department of Public Safety provided a helicopter to extract the hiker off the mountain and transport her to Tucson for treatment.
The subject reportedly suffered a broken clavicle, broken ribs, and two possible broken ankles.
In remote or rugged locations, small events can quickly escalate into dangerous situations. Border Patrol or OAM agents are often the first to respond to emergencies in rural and remote areas.
Customs and Border Protection welcomes assistance from the community. Citizens can report suspicious activity to the Border Patrol by calling (877) 872-7435 toll free. All calls will be answered and remain anonymous.