NOGALES, AZ — A Customs and Border Protection agent fell 15 feet while arresting suspected drug smugglers near Nogales on Thursday.
According to a news release, agents started tracking a group west of Nogales through mountainous terrain. A National Guard helicopter was called in to assist.
Agents detained three Mexican nationals who were carrying a total of six large packs of marijuana. Officials say the combined weight of the drugs was 286 pounds.
During the arrest, one agent fell 15 feet and injured his head, arms, and legs. Other CBP agents were able to stabilize him before he was airlifted to a nearby hospital.
He has since been released.
