YUMA, Ariz. – Yuma Sector Border Patrol agents rescued two migrants Sunday from drowning after surveillance cameras recorded a group of six migrants, all from Colombia, who had leaped into the Salinity Canal near County 8 ½ Street.
Not long after the agents arrived around 5:30 p.m., four of the migrants managed to climb out of the canal, but two continued to float downstream. The agents rushed towards the struggling migrants, approximately fifty yards apart, and pulled out one by extending a hand and lifting him to shore. Agents used a rescue disc to pull the other to safety. One of the migrants was transported to Yuma Regional Medical Center for further treatment.
Yuma Station agents have responded to a recent increase in the number of migrants who believe the canal offers easy access to entry, but then quickly find themselves in life-threatening situations due to the cold water, surprisingly swift current and steep banks.
“I am proud of our Border Patrol agents who carried out their professional duties in exemplary fashion, demonstrating a respect for life by making no judgement as to who was in danger or why,” said Yuma Sector Chief Patrol agent Chris Clem. “I commend the compassion and professionalism of our agents as they serve to protect our borders.”