YUMA, AZ – Two Border Patrol agents sustained injuries following a vehicular incident at a checkpoint close to Yuma, Arizona. The mishap involved three vehicles and occurred on Saturday around 4:39 p.m. along the Interstate 8, specifically at milepost 17, as reported by the Arizona Department of Public Safety (AZDPS).
The unfolding of events began when a Ford F-150 pickup sped into the Border Patrol checkpoint. This rapid entry led to the pickup colliding with the rear end of a stationary vehicle near the checkpoint. The momentum didn’t stop there; the pickup proceeded to crash into barriers and structures where the Border Patrol Agents were stationed. It further hit the rear of a third vehicle before finally tilting to rest on its driver’s side. Tragically, during this chaos, one of the pickup’s occupants was partially thrown out.
In the wake of this devastating incident, eight individuals, including the two agents, required medical attention. Initially rushed to a local hospital, the injured agents were later airlifted to Phoenix for specialized medical care. As per the latest reports from AZDPS, out of all the injured, three, including the two agents, are currently in critical condition.
The severity of the situation prompted multiple federal agencies to respond. The Federal Bureau of Investigation, Department of Homeland Security Office of Inspector General, and CBP’s Office of Professional Responsibility were among the authorities present at the crash site.
Expressing deep concern and seeking support, a post from the Border Patrol Union read, “Our agents bravely risk their lives daily to protect this nation. We request your thoughts and prayers for the two critically injured agents, following the recent incident on Interstate 8 between Wellton and Yuma.”
In a heartfelt note of gratitude, a CBP spokesperson acknowledged the relentless efforts of all the first responders and trauma personnel, “The U.S. Border Patrol is immensely grateful to every individual who worked through the night ensuring lifesaving care. We appreciate the unwavering support from both the local community and those nationwide during this challenging period.”