On Monday, January 25, 2016, at approximately 10:45 a.m., U.S. Border Patrol agent shot a drug smuggler in a remote area east of Apache, Arizona near Skeleton Canyon in Hidalgo County, New Mexico.
Agents were tracking the suspects that had fled from a narcotics laden vehicle.
Initial reports indicate that an agent discharged his service issued sidearm during a struggle with one suspect who has been wounded. EMS and first responders provided emergency medical treatment to the suspect, who has been flown by life flight to an area hospital.
According to sources, two vehicles were heading north across the the desert when they encountered Border Patrol. One vehicle turned back toward Mexico, the other proceeded. In the area of Skull Canyon, one smuggler reportedly confronted agents, a scuffle occurred and after being momentarily blinded when the smuggler threw dirt in the agent’s eyes, the agent discharged his weapon. The other smuggler headed on foot into the Peloncillo Mountains.
According to the Department of Homeland Security, the border has never been safer.