El Centro Sector Border Patrol agents help in rescuing two missing children

BARSTOW, Calif. (KYMA) - U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) says El Centro Sector Border Patrol agents helped in rescuing two missing children, and in the arrest of "their non-custodial parent" in Barstow, California.

CBP says the agents at the Indio Station received a missing persons alert Tuesday regarding the possible kidnapping of two children, and says the alert provided information on the suspected vehicle.

After receiving the alert, CBP says the agents saw a vehicle matching the description driving southbound on Interstate 15, near the Minneola Road exit of Yermo, California.

From there, CBP says the agents notified the California Highway Patrol (CHP), and says they provided updates regarding the vehicle's location.

CBP says CHP contacted a helicopter to help observe the vehicle, which was driving south of Barstow before exiting to Main Street and entered a restaurant parking lot before 5 p.m.

CBP says the agents, CHP and the Barstow Police Department arrived at the restaurant and took the suspect, a "non-custodial parent," into custody, as well as safely rescuing the two children.

"This incident reflects the professionalism, vigilance, and unwavering commitment of our Border Patrol Agents," said Acting Chief Patrol Agent Daniel I. Parra. "Their swift action was instrumental in bringing this incident to a safe resolution and reuniting the children with their loved ones. I am proud of the exceptional service our agents provide each day to protect our communities and our nation."