Border Patrol rescues abandoned migrant south of Calexico

Blackhawk helicopter called in to assist with search

OCOTILLO, Calif. (KYMA, KECY) - El Centro Sector Border Patrol agents had to rescue an illegal immigrant after his traveling companions abandoned him in the mountains west of Calexico.

Agents say they arrested three illegal immigrant just around 10:45 Wednesday morning. They say one of the migrants told Border Patrol Search and Rescue (BORSTAR) they'd left a man behind. BORSTAR immediately launched a search for the man.

Around 11 a.m., A Department of Defense Blackhawk helicopter joined the rescue effort. Within minutes it spotted the man. The chopper then lowered a agent to him. The agent, who is also a certified paramedic, examined the man and found him to be in good health. Border Patrol then airlifted him out of the area.

Agents later arrested the man. He and his travelling companions were all taken to the El Centro Station for processing.