Undocumented migrant found unresponsive in vehicle near Boulevard, CA

On June 26, 2021, a Border Patrol Agent (BPA) was observing traffic on a rural road near Boulevard, CA, when he noticed a red Honda travel southbound and then return northbound a few minutes later with additional occupants.  The BPA conducted a vehicle stop and found four undocumented migrants inside the vehicle, including one in the trunk.  As the occupants got out of the vehicle, the BPA noticed that one of the migrants in the back seat, a female later determined to be a Mexican citizen, was unresponsive.  The BPA immediately requested medical assistance.  Approximately 7 minutes later, California Department of Forestry and Fire Protection (CAL-Fire) Emergency Medical Services arrived on scene. The woman was then transported to a local area hospital via helicopter, where she was later pronounced deceased.

Migrants from the vehicle told investigators they crossed the border with the female earlier in the day. The group reportedly walked for approximately five hours through rough desert terrain in the midday heat without access to water. Prior to getting into the vehicle, the migrant in question complained of headaches and passed out several times. The migrants reported she was going in and out of consciousness after they were picked up by the red Honda.

The suspected migrant smuggling activity is being investigated by Homeland Security Investigations.  The death is being reviewed by San Diego Medical County Examiner’s Office and the CBP Office of Professional Responsibility. The Department of Homeland Security Office of Inspector General was also notified of the incident.