Dulzura, Calif. — U.S. Border Patrol (USBP) agents rescued three abandoned migrants on Otay Mountain late Tuesday night.
Tuesday, at approximately 11:30 p.m., agents assigned to the USBP Foreign Operations Branch (FOB) were notified by Mexican government officials that a group of illegal border crossers were abandoned by their smuggler while they slept.
The lost migrants were exposed to near freezing temperatures coupled with high winds and minimal food or water. Members of USBP’s Border Patrol Search, Trauma, and Rescue (BORSTAR) coordinated with FOB to determine an approximate location of the group. BORSTAR members rapidly deployed to the area on foot, with cold-weather equipment.
At approximately 2:00 a.m., the group was located, and were determined to be ambulatory. The group consisted of two Mexican adult males and a fifteen-year-old unaccompanied Mexican male. All three were unlawfully present in the United States. The group was provided hand-warmers and warm fluids. After a medical evaluation, all three people were transported to a nearby Border Patrol station for processing.
“Regardless of harsh weather conditions, our agents continue saving lives,” said Chief Patrol Agent Aaron M. Heitke. “I am very proud of their 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.