YUMA, Ariz. – Yuma Sector Border Patrol agents working with an Arizona Army National Guard helicopter rescued six illegal aliens in distress from three separate groups on Thursday and Friday. The distressed individuals included a subject that was airlifted to a nearby hospital and two that required immediate emergency care.
Thursday afternoon, Wellton Station was notified that an illegal alien in distress made a 911 call while crossing through the desert. An air asset with the Arizona Army National Guard immediately responded to a request for assistance from Border Patrol agents searching the area.
At approximately 11:20 p.m., the helicopter crew located two individuals in the estimated area of the 911 caller. Upon further investigation, two additional subjects were located near the original group. One subject in severe distress was airlifted to Gila Bend by the National Guard helicopter and transferred to a Care Flight helicopter. The three remaining subjects were transported to the Ajo Border Patrol Station.
Early Friday morning, agents working in the area observed a signal fire in the distance. Agents located two illegal aliens in distress. Upon interviewing the subjects, it was determined that this group included the 911 caller. Both subjects required immediate medical attention and their conditions greatly improved after agents administered intravenous fluids. Both subjects were processed for immigration violations.
The Arizona Army National Guard is currently supporting the Department of Homeland Security on the Southwest border mission.