A U.S. Border Patrol agent died Tuesday in an ATV crash in Arizona while responding about a report of possible undocumented immigrants.
U.S. Border Patrol Agent Freddy Ortiz was checking out a call concerning suspected undocumented immigrants just after 7 p.m. in Douglas, according to the Cochise County Sheriff's Office. He had been assigned to the agency's Douglas Station in Tucson Sector.
While responding, Ortiz's all-terrain vehicle left the roadway, and he struck a light pole. Ortiz was rushed to the hospital, where he died.
“U.S. Border Patrol Agent Freddy’s Ortiz’s on-duty death is a tragedy and a stark reminder of the dangerous nature of our mission” John Modlin, chief patrol agent for Tucson Sector, said in a statement. “ I am grateful for all the Border Patrol Agents, first responders, and medical staff who attempted to save his life. My thoughts and prayers are with his family, friends, and loved ones.”
U.S. Customs Border Protection and the Cochise County Sheriff's Office are investigating the incident.
