Two Hikers Saved from Arizona Desert Peril by Heroic Border Patrol Agents

By Jonathan Eberle |

U.S. Border Patrol agents in the Tucson Sector executed two urgent rescue operations over the weekend, successfully aiding two U.S. citizens stranded in desolate desert areas in southern Arizona.

These rescues, occurring on Saturday and Sunday, underscore the Border Patrol’s dual role in enforcing immigration laws and providing vital support in perilous situations across the state.

On Saturday, the elite Search, Trauma, and Rescue (BORSTAR) team responded to an emergency call from the Pinal County Sheriff’s Office regarding an injured hiker near the Superstition Mountains, east of Phoenix. The hiker, suffering from a likely broken ankle and immobilized, was located by Pinal County’s rescue helicopter, Pinal Air 1. Given the remote, rocky landscape, a BORSTAR agent was lowered to stabilize the hiker, who was subsequently airlifted to safety for additional medical care.

The following day, agents at the Sonoita Station received a call from the Santa Cruz County Sheriff’s Office about a lost hiker on the Arizona Trail near Pauline Ridge. The hiker had been missing for two days and was spotted by a U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) Air and Marine Operations helicopter. However, dense vegetation and challenging terrain prevented a helicopter landing.

Ground agents trekked into the remote location, provided immediate medical attention, and escorted the hiker to the Sonoita-Elgin Fire Department for further treatment.

“These rescues illustrate our agents’ extensive training, teamwork, and unyielding commitment to public safety,” stated Tucson Sector Chief Patrol Agent Sean L. McGoffin. “Our teams consistently show their dedication to saving lives.”

While primarily recognized for immigration enforcement, Border Patrol agents, especially those in specialized divisions like BORSTAR, frequently engage in emergency responses for lost or injured individuals in isolated areas. Established in the late 1990s, BORSTAR was originally formed to address rising migrant fatalities in the desert but has broadened its operations to include rescue missions for both citizens and migrants. The challenging Arizona terrain poses significant risks, particularly during extreme weather conditions, endangering hikers, outdoor enthusiasts, and undocumented migrants trying to traverse the desert.

The Tucson Sector agents perform numerous rescues annually, collaborating with local law enforcement and fire services to locate and evacuate individuals from hard-to-reach locations. Border Patrol and CBP officials are actively urging outdoor enthusiasts to take precautions and be adequately prepared before venturing into the remote Arizona desert. Essential safety tips include carrying ample water, ensuring a charged cell phone or GPS device is available, and informing others of intended travel plans.

Jonathan Eberle is a reporter for AZ Free News. You can send him news tips using this link.