U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) agents from the Douglas Border Patrol Station, in collaboration with the Mexican Consulate and a local hunter, successfully rescued a man from Mexico who had been abandoned by his group in Rucker Canyon, Arizona. The incident took place on November 8th when the man was unable to keep up due to injuries.

The Mexican Consulate informed the Douglas Station’s International Liaison Unit about the situation after receiving communication from the stranded individual, who was located 37 miles north of the U.S.-Mexico border. This prompted immediate action under the Border Patrol’s Missing Migrant Program, which aims to prevent loss of life among migrants crossing through the southern border.

Rita Vargas Torregrosa, Consul for Mexico in Douglas, Arizona, emphasized the importance of international cooperation in such situations: “Events like this highlight the 24/7 level of collaboration and coordination that exists between both countries.”

The rescue operation gained momentum when a local hunter reported encountering an injured man while hunting in Rucker Canyon. Two Border Patrol agents met with the hunter, who guided them to the injured person. The man explained that he had sustained back and leg injuries and was left behind by his group.

Sean McGoffin, Chief Patrol Agent of Tucson Sector, underscored the significance of community liaison efforts: “Our liaison efforts with our local communities, and our foreign partners are critical to our border security efforts.”

After being located by agents, the man was transported to a hospital in Douglas for initial treatment before being transferred to a Tucson hospital for further care due to heat-related injuries. The International Liaison Unit communicated these developments back to the Mexican Consulate.

CBP continues its mission as America's frontline law enforcement organization, ensuring safe travel and trade while enhancing national security through innovation and collaboration.