BP rescues drowning illegal crosser from All-American Canal

Local Border Patrol saved the life of a drowning man recently in the All-American Canal highlighting once more the dangers for those trying to cross the border illegally.

Agent Justin Castrejon said, “The man was in distress. The agents were able to respond accordingly. And additionally they were able to provide medical – advance medical care for the individual.”

He said after unsuccessfully trying to rescue the man from the strong canal currents, an emergency team jumped into action.

“Border Patrol search trauma and rescue team – BORSTAR – was called on and they responded to the area,” Castrejon said.

He said they’ve had to step in to save the lives of illegal crossers on several occasions.

“We’ve had 14 rescues in fiscal year 2018. This fiscal year, 2019, which started October first, we’ve had already two rescues,” Castrejon said.

He said there are many dangers for agents as well along the 70 border miles in the area. He mentioned the climate in the region and individuals whom they run into who might want to do the agents harm.

Castrejon said saving lives is part of their everyday work.

“This is not something new for our sector, but it is something we’re always on alert for. And we’re always out there to help anyone, immigrant, non-immigrant, citizen – anyone that may need our help,” Castrejon said.

Castrejon added that no agents in the area have been seriously injured in assisting undocumented immigrants in distress.