On July 16, 2024, Border Patrol Agents (BPAs) apprehended a male and female undocumented noncitizen near Topawa, Arizona. The agents were conducting line watch duties while assigned to the Three Points Station. Upon escorting the pair to their vehicles, one of the BPAs observed that the man was showing symptoms of heat-related illness.

The agents promptly requested assistance from Border Patrol Search Trauma and Rescue (BORSTAR) and emergency medical services (EMS). The man was placed in an air-conditioned vehicle, and ice packs were applied to cool him down. However, he began drifting in and out of consciousness.

Emergency services arrived at approximately 1:54 p.m., taking over primary care for the man and facilitating his transport via Life Flight to Banner University Medical Center in Tucson, Arizona. Despite medical efforts, he remained unconscious and intubated until he passed away on July 17, 2024.

Following the incident, CBP Office of Professional Responsibility (OPR) Special Agents interviewed the woman who had been with him. She reported that during their journey into the United States, he experienced chest pains and discomfort but continued traveling until they were apprehended. She commended the BPAs for their swift actions in attempting to save his life.

The Pima County Office of Medical Examiner conducted an external examination rather than a full autopsy at CBP OPR's request. The cause of death was determined to be heat exposure.

The CBP OPR is currently reviewing this incident, with notification made to the Department of Homeland Security Office of Inspector General.

U.S. Customs and Border Protection describes itself as "America's frontline," with over 65,000 personnel safeguarding U.S. borders on land, sea, and air.