CBP Notification Regarding a Death in El Paso, TX
This notification is issued in accordance with CBP policies and DHS reporting requirements related to CBP-involved deaths.
Incident Summary
On January 16, 2025, a Border Patrol Agent (BPA) using a drone observed a group of individuals scaling the border barrier near Clint, TX. One individual in the group subsequently became unresponsive. Despite receiving immediate CPR and AED treatment from BPAs and subsequent medical care, the individual, a Honduran citizen, was pronounced deceased at Del Sol Medical Center.
Timeline of Events
7:00 a.m.: BPA drone observes group crossing the border.
7:02 a.m.: Ground BPAs visually confirm the group.
7:09 a.m.: Drone pilot reports an individual appears injured.
7:13 a.m.: BPAs arrive at the scene.
7:15 a.m.: BPAs find an unresponsive male and request EMS.
7:16 a.m.: BPAs perform CPR and AED.
7:37 a.m.: EMS arrives and transports the individual to the hospital.
7:47 a.m.: Arrival at Del Sol Medical Center.
8:32 a.m.: Individual pronounced deceased.
Statements from Witnesses
Individuals who crossed the border with the deceased stated he reported feeling faint and pointed to his chest approximately 10 minutes after crossing. They were unaware of any pre-existing medical conditions.
Ongoing Investigations
The El Paso County Office of the Medical Examiner will conduct an autopsy. CBP’s Office of Professional Responsibility (OPR) is reviewing the incident, and the Department of Homeland Security Office of Inspector General has been notified.
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