A Man in Distress is Rescued by CBP, He is Wanted in Oklahoma

TUCSON, ARIZONA, US – U.S. Border Patrol agents rescue a man in medical distress to later find out he is wanted in Canadian County, Oklahoma.   

Around 11 pm on Monday, Tucson Sector agents patrolling the desert west of Douglas, Arizona encountered a man going in and out of consciousness. Agents immediately requested emergency medical services to respond as they attempted to get the 44 year-old Mexican National to safety.

Recent monsoon activity, the man’s body size, and the lack of vehicular access to the area prevented agents from using an off-road vehicle for extraction to an awaiting ambulance.

According to a press release, the Arizona Department of Public Safety Ranger aircraft was requested and assisted in flying in medical personnel and extracting the man from the desert.

The rescued man, later identified as Carlos Vargas-Verdin was taken to a local area hospital and later discharged.  During a criminal background check it was discovered Vargas was not only illegally present in the United States but has an outstanding warrant from Canadian County, Oklahoma for Possession of Dangerous Drugs.

Vargas is being processed for immigration violations and will be extradited to Canadian County Sherriff’s Office.       

Tucson Sector’s more than 230 EMTs and dozens of paramedics can render immediate care in the field, as well as in route to advanced medical facilities, to individuals in critical, lifesaving need. Collaboration with other federal, tribal, state and local partners ensures that people lost or injured in southern Arizona’s remote, inhospitable areas are given the best possible chance for survival.