Additional Coverage:
Southern Arizona Desert Rescues Highlight Agents’ Skill and Dedication
Two hikers stranded in separate incidents over the weekend were successfully rescued thanks to the coordinated efforts of multiple agencies in southern Arizona.
On Saturday, a hiker near the Superstition Mountains, east of Phoenix, suffered a possible broken ankle and was unable to walk. Border Patrol Search, Trauma, and Rescue (BORSTAR) agents, along with Pinal County Sheriff’s Office personnel, responded to the call. A BORSTAR agent was lowered from a helicopter hoist to assess the hiker, who was then airlifted to safety for further medical evaluation.
The following day, agents from the Sonoita Border Patrol Station joined forces with the Santa Cruz County Sheriff’s Office to locate a lost and injured hiker on the Arizona Trail near Pauline Ridge. After a helicopter located the hiker, ground agents navigated challenging terrain and thick vegetation to reach the individual, who had been lost for two days. The hiker received immediate medical assistance and was transported to the Sonoita-Elgin Fire Department for further care.
Tucson Sector Chief Patrol Agent Sean L. McGoffin commended the agents involved, stating, “These rescues are a testament to their training, teamwork, and unwavering commitment to public safety. Our agents and teams continuously demonstrate their dedication to saving people’s lives.”