YUMA, Ariz. – Yuma Sector Border Patrol agents rescued an elderly, semi-conscious man who was experiencing heat exhaustion.
On Sunday evening, two Blythe agents noticed a minivan parked off the shoulder of an Interstate 10 exit ramp near Graham Pass. The van was buried in soft sand up to the vehicle’s axles. The agents noticed an elderly man slumped over into the passenger seat. Both agents attempted to communicate with the subject, but the man was semi-conscious and unable to respond to the agents’ questions. The vehicle’s air conditioning was blowing hot air and the agents smelled gasoline. Suspecting heat exhaustion, the agents extracted the subject from his vehicle and placed him in the cold air conditioning in their Border Patrol vehicle. Additionally, they gave the subject juice and a cold pack. Emergency medical services (EMS), and the subject’s daughter were notified.
The 80-year-old U.S. citizen was taken to a nearby hospital.
U.S. Customs and Border Protection officials welcome assistance from the community. Individuals can report suspicious activity to the Border Patrol and remain anonymous by calling 1-877-872-7435 toll free. Reporting illicit activity could result in saving someone’s life.