Border Patrol Agent Alexander Giannini was killed in an automobile accident on I-10, near Sybil Road, near Benson, Arizona, shortly after 7:30 am. on Wednesday May 28. Agent Giannini and another agent, from the Willcox Station, were traveling on I-10 when their vehicle was involved in a one vehicle accident.
the investigation revealed the accident was the result of a tire blowout and unfortunately agent Giannini was not wearing his seatbelt and was ejected from the vehicle resulting in fatal injury.
According to a statement from Customs and Border Protection Commissioner R. Gil Kerlikowske, Agent Giannini was flown to University Medical Center in Tucson, where he succumbed to his injuries.
Agent Giannini had served with the United States Border Patrol for five years. He was survived by his parents, sister, and fiancee.
Governor Jan Brewer ordered that flags flown at all state office buildings be lowered to half-staff from sunrise until sunset on Thursday, May 29, 2014 in honor of Agent Giannini. The flags will also be lowered on the day of his interment.
Kerlikowske said the nature of the “other Agent’s injuries is not known and the cause of the accident is being investigated. It is difficult expressing our thoughts and appreciation for their commitment and dedication to the mission knowing that whatever words we draw upon simply will not do justice to the sacrifices they made. We ask that the citizens of Arizona and the nation join us in thoughts and prayers for the families of these brave individuals.”