Matthew Klein Assistant Commissioner | U.S. Customs and Border Protection
On July 17, 2024, a Border Patrol Agent (BPA) assigned to the Rangeley Station responded to a call from the Franklin County Sheriff's Office (FCSO) regarding a potentially suicidal individual near Eustis, Maine. The BPA, who was monitoring law enforcement radio frequencies, contacted FCSO and offered assistance.
At approximately 2:25 a.m., the BPA located a truck matching the description given by FCSO and conducted a vehicle stop for a welfare check. Upon stopping the vehicle, a man exited with a pistol. The BPA reported that he drew his CBP-issued handgun and instructed the man to drop his weapon. Although the man did not comply, he did not threaten the agent but instead walked away.
The BPA holstered his firearm and drew an Electronic Control Weapon (ECW). At around 2:27 a.m., as the BPA deployed the ECW, the man reportedly discharged one round into his head. The BPA immediately called for assistance via service radio.
Within minutes, FCSO deputies arrived on scene. Emergency medical services were dispatched by USBP dispatchers and NorthStar Emergency Medical Services arrived at approximately 2:30 a.m. Despite efforts by both EMS personnel and the BPA to revive him, no signs of life were found. A NorthStar paramedic pronounced him deceased at 2:32 a.m.
Following this incident, on July 18, 2024, it was confirmed by an external examination conducted by the Maine Office of Chief Medical Examiner that death resulted from a gunshot wound to the head with suicide listed as manner of death.
The Franklin County Sheriff's Office is conducting an investigation into this incident while CBP's Office of Professional Responsibility is reviewing it. Additionally, notification has been made to the Department of Homeland Security Office of Inspector General.
U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP), which describes itself as America's frontline law enforcement organization with over 65,000 members tasked with protecting America’s borders on land, air, and sea while facilitating lawful travel and trade for economic prosperity—continues its operations under these principles.