Two BP agents in critical condition after crash at checkpoint

DPS said impairment is not suspected to be a factor in the crash

YUMA, Ariz. (KYMA, KECY) - The Arizona Department of Public Safety (DPS) said as of Monday two Border Patrol agents are in critical condition after a three-vehicle crash at the checkpoint on Interstate 8 in Yuma.

According to DPS, the crash happened Saturday at 4:39 p.m. at the U.S. Border Patrol checkpoint located on eastbound Interstate 8.

A Ford F-150 pickup entered the checkpoint at a high rate of speed and crashed with the rear of another vehicle which was stationary at the checkpoint, said DPS.

DPS said the pickup continued heading towards the checkpoint where it collided with crash barriers, checkpoint structures with Border Patrol agents and also the rear of a third vehicle.

“They're injured pretty extensive it’s our hope and prayers along with everybody in the law enforcement community that they pull through but they’re condition as of this morning was critical,” said DPS Media Relations Specialist Bart Graves about the two border patrol agents.

The pickup came to rest on its driver's side and one of the passengers was partially ejected, said DPS. That passenger, along with the two border patrol agents, were also flown to a Phoenix hospital and is in serious condition.

There were eight people in total who taken to the local hospital and Phoenix trauma centers for medical attention, said DPS.

Yuma Mayor Doug Nicholls says his thoughts are with everyone affected by the crash.

“We look forward always to try to protect our men and women who protect us and unfortunately Saturday night they were all in a car accident at the checkpoint... some severe injuries our hearts and our prayers are out with them and their families,” said Mayor Nicholls.

According to DPS, the Ford F-150 was seized for investigation. They did question the driver, who remains hospitalized at Yuma Regional Medical Center. The driver blames the crash on a vehicle malfunction.