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  4. USBP Agents and Partners Rescue Lost, Injured Migrant

USBP Agents and Partners Rescue Lost, Injured Migrant

Release Date
Tue, 04/13/2021

Dulzura, Calif. — U.S. Border Patrol agents assisted in the rescue of an injured and lost migrant woman on Sunday night. The complicated rescue required responders to wait overnight for an air extraction.

U.S. Border Patrol agents assisted in the rescue of an injured and lost migrant woman on Sunday night. The incident began on Sunday at 9 p.m., when the San Diego Sheriff’s Department notified Border Patrol agents of a lost female on Otay Mountain.  Border Patrol Search, Trauma, and Rescue (BORSTAR) agents rapidly deployed to assist with locating the woman.

At approximately 9:15 p.m., Aerial Support to Regional Enforcement Agencies (ASTREA) located the lost female.  With direction from ASTREA, agents on the ground, in conjunction with California Department of Forestry and Fire Protection (CAL FIRE) firefighters made their way through harsh terrain to the female. 

Upon reaching the woman, rescuers discerned that she had suffered an injury to her knee and hip after falling approximately 20 feet.  The woman was also vomiting profusely and suffering from hypothermia.  Agents treated the woman for the injuries sustained, as well as prolonged cold exposure.  Inclement weather forced air support to clear the area shortly after locating the woman.  After stabilizing the woman, agents issued cold-weather equipment to everyone on-scene while waiting for air support with hoist capabilities to airlift the woman from the mountain. 

The complicated rescue required responders to wait overnight for an air extraction.The rescuers monitored the female victim on site until the following morning at approximately 10:20 a.m., when a window of fair weather allowed air assets to arrive and hoist the woman from the mountain to an awaiting ambulance.  The woman was then transported to a nearby hospital for treatment.  Agents determined that the woman was a 34-year-old Mexican national with no legal status in the United States.

“Collaboration saves lives,” said Chief Patrol Agent Aaron M. Heitke of San Diego Sector Border Patrol. “This rescue highlights the importance of teamwork amongst federal, state, and local agencies. I am extremely proud of all of the involved parties and their life-saving efforts.”

To prevent the illicit smuggling of humans, drugs, and other contraband, the U.S. Border Patrol maintains a high level of vigilance on corridors of egress away from our Nation’s borders.  To report suspicious activity to the U.S. Border Patrol, contact San Diego Sector at (619) 498-9900.          

Last Modified: Apr 13, 2021