U.S. Border Patrol Fallen

As of May 27, 2024 the U.S. Border Patrol has suffered 159* fallen.
Titles

3 Mounted Watchmen fell before 1924 and are carried as Border Patrol fallen
50 Border Patrol Inspectors fell between 1924 and 1970
105 Border Patrol Agents have fallen since 1970
1 Enforcement Analysis Specialist

Please spread the word!

The following names hold a distinguished position, as they have made the ultimate sacrifice in their unwavering commitment to uphold the oath each officer took to protect and defend the United States of America.

The facts concerning each officer are presented with minimal editing to preserve the "language of the day" found in the original reports, providing readers with a sense of historical context.

In compliance with the Privacy Act of 1974, the cause of death for employees who lost their lives in the line of duty due to exposure to lethal illnesses will not be disclosed.

* Please note that although there was no official LODD criteria at the time of their deaths, the circumstances surrounding Patrol Inspector Garvis Field Harrell, Border Patrol Agent John Charles Gigax, and Border Patrol Pilot Howard H. Gay were similar to those later recognized as Line of Duty Deaths. Despite this, none of these brave individuals are officially recognized as fallen by either Customs and Border Protection or the U.S. Border Patrol. Nonetheless, HonorFirst.com respectfully includes Inspector Harrell, Agent Gigax, and Pilot Gay among those honored as having fallen in the line of duty. See the Unrecognized but Unforgotten page for more information.

1919

Clarence M. Childress
Date of Birth: January 21, 1877
Entered on Duty: February 16, 1918
Title: Mounted Watchman
End of Watch: April 16, 1919

Details:
At 3:00 a.m. on April 13, 1919, Mounted Watchman Clarence M. Childress and his partner, Mounted Watchman Leroy D. Straw, were on duty near Monument 9, known as “The Island,” near El Paso, Texas. The officers observed a man come near the line on the Mexican side. A few seconds later, three men ran from the United States side into Mexico and joined the man waiting there. The group then moved several hundred feet into Mexico. A few minutes later, seven men came to the line, which at that point was marked by a barbed wire fence. Two of the seven men held it down with their feet while the other five crossed to the American side with sacks on their backs. The officers made a challenging run at the smugglers and the two who had remained on the line immediately opened fire while the other five dropped the sacks they were carrying and ran toward Mexico. The officers returned fire and all seven of the smugglers ran further into Mexico, disappearing over the mesa. While the officers were pursuing the smugglers, Childress said, “I am hit and going to telephone.” Officer Straw proceeded to the point where the smugglers had abandoned their contraband where he remained, expecting Childress to return.

When Childress failed to return, Mounted Watchman Straw became concerned and proceeded to a house where a telephone was available. There he learned that Childress had been seriously wounded and was being cared for pending the arrival of an ambulance. An emergency operation was performed, but he failed to recover. Death occurred at 9:10 a.m. on the morning of April 16, 1919.

Survivor benefits - As per this document, his wife received $60.50 per month for her and their two children. Then $38.50 per month for her only.

Gravesite

Charles L. Hopkins
Date of Birth: February 23, 1881
Entered on Duty: December 24, 1912
Title: Mounted Watchman
End of Watch: May 8, 1919

Details:
On May 8, 1919, at 10:15 p.m., Mounted Watchman Charles Lloyd Hopkins was shot by smugglers on the banks of the Rio Grande River, near Laredo, Texas. He died three hours later in Mercy Hospital, Laredo. Reportedly, the shot that killed Mounted Watchman Hopkins was the first one fired in a general gun battle between smugglers and federal officers in which a United States Public Health Service Guard, Ira Hill, and several of the Mexican smugglers were also killed.

Gravesite

1922

Charles Gardiner
Date of Birth: February 5, 1882
Entered on Duty: August 15, 1918
Title: Mounted Watchman
End of Watch: October 21, 1922
Details
Mounted Guard Charles Gardiner was shot and killed without warning by the driver of a wagon loaded with smuggled liquor. Gardiner was approaching the vehicle to inspect it when the unprovoked attack occurred. The report indicated that he approached a one-horse wagon containing two Mexicans for the purpose of questioning them as to their immigration status and that they jumped from the wagon, immediately firing upon him from close range.

Death Certificate

Survivor benefits - As per this document, his wife received $66.67 per month for her and their four children. Then $49.50 for her and one child.

Gravesite

1924

James F. Mankin
Date of Birth: April 5, 1902
Entered on Duty: July 28, 1924
Title: Patrol Inspector
End of Watch: September 14, 1924

Details:
At about 4:30 p.m., September 14, 1924, Patrol Inspector James F. Mankin was killed by the accidental discharge of a service rifle. The accident occurred about 18 miles northeast of Laredo near the Rio Grande River where Patrol Inspector Mankin, along with Patrol Inspectors Buck West and Ralph R. Dockum, were patrolling in a government vehicle. The officers, upon reaching the banks of the river, alighted from the car to determine whether any crossings had been made. Upon returning to the car, Patrol Inspector Mankin, who had been driving, entered the vehicle and seated himself behind the steering wheel. Patrol Inspector Dockum prepared to enter the back seat of the car from the left side and Patrol Inspector West was to enter the back seat from the right side of the automobile. There were two rifles in scabbards in the back of the car along with camping gear and other articles.

The two officers were rearranging the items in the back of the car in order to make more room for themselves when a .30 caliber government rifle slipped out of the car, the hammer striking the running board and discharging the gun. The bullet struck the back of the front seat about six inches below the top. The bullet split, one part ricocheting to the left, striking the bow over the back seat and passing within a few inches of Dockum's face. The other part of the bullet ricocheted to the right through the upholstering of the front seat, striking Inspector Mankin behind the right ear.
Inspector Mankin died less than thirty minutes after the accident.

NOTE: For several years, Inspector Mankin was not carried carried in the rolls of the Immigration Service's honored fallen. This is evident by his name being omitted in the 1927 Commissioner-General's Annual Report to the Secretary of Labor (pg 18).

Survivor benefits - As per this document, his mother received $20 per month for 8 years.

Gravesite

Frank H. Clark
Date of Birth: January 4, 1879
Entered on Duty: August 5, 1924
Title: Patrol Inspector
End of Watch: December 13, 1924

Details:
While patrolling in company with another officer near Cordova Island, El Paso, Texas, on the evening of December 13, 1924, Patrol Inspector Clark was shot and killed by smuggler's spotters. They had concealed themselves at a strategic point on the American side of the international boundary line for the purpose of warning and protecting the smugglers should the presence of officers be detected. When the smugglers were challenged by the Patrol Inspectors, the spotters opened fire from ambush, and one of the shots hit Patrol Inspector Clark. His death was instantaneous. Other officers quickly took positions in concealment surrounding the scene of the action and remained there through the night. They found sacks containing illegal liquor, and they took into custody a Mexican family found on the scene searching the premises in the early morning. One of these Mexicans, Eulalio Aguilar, was subsequently indicted on charge of murder, convicted and given a 10- year sentence.

Survivor benefits - As per this document, his wife received $65 per month until their two children turned 18, then $49 per month.

Gravesite

1925

Joseph P. Riley
Date of Birth: October 23, 1894
Entered on Duty: October 8, 1924
Title: Patrol Inspector
End of Watch: April 6, 1925

Details:
During the evening of April 4, 1925, Patrol Inspectors William A. Blundell and Joseph P. Riley were patrolling in a government-owned car about 1 1/2 miles from Eureka, Montana, when the tie rod broke, causing the automobile to leave the roadway. The vehicle continued over a high bank and then into a ditch and turned over, pinning Inspector Riley under the steering wheel. Patrol Inspector Blundell was not seriously injured.

Patrol Inspector Riley sustained a fractured cervical vertebra and a spinal cord injury. He was conveyed to the Eureka Hospital, which was nearest the scene of the accident. The attending physician advised that Inspector Riley's condition was so serious that facilities were not available for providing proper attention at Eureka and he recommended moving the patient to Spokane, Washington. On April 5, Inspector Riley was transported by train to Spokane, Washington, where he was placed in the Sacred Heart Hospital. He succumbed at 6:00 a.m. on April 6, 1925, from respiratory paralysis.

Survivor benefits - As per this document, his mother received $20 per month for 8 years

Gravesite

Augustin de la Pena
Date of Birth: October 9, 1882
Entered on Duty: August 9, 1923
Title: Patrol Inspector
End of Watch: August 2, 1925

Details:
On August 2, 1925, Patrol Inspectors Agustin de la Pena and Fred Neale, stationed at Zapata, Texas, were conducting a border patrol mission near Salinene, Texas, to apprehend two German aliens reported to be entering the United States illegally. A heavy rainstorm forced them to alter their route and continue their investigation along the Rio Grande. They arrived at Rio Grande City and, due to continued bad weather, decided to dine at the International Cafe while waiting for conditions to improve.

During their meal, joined by Mr. Albino Hinojosa, a local merchant, a disturbance arose when Macario Pena entered the cafe requesting water. Mr. Hinojosa alerted the inspectors to Pena’s erratic behavior and known mental instability, advising them that Pena, a Mexican citizen, was armed and dangerous. After Pena left the restaurant and headed towards the City Drug Store, de la Pena followed closely to question him about his immigration status.

As de la Pena approached Pena in the doorway of the drug store, he was immediately confronted with a revolver. Despite de la Pena's command to disarm, Pena shot him in the abdomen. Inspector Neale arrived just as the shot was fired and witnessed de la Pena struggling to disarm Pena. The scuffle continued with Neale and bystander Adam Marks attempting to intervene, but their efforts were hampered by the confined space and the intense struggle.

Severely wounded and realizing the gravity of the situation, de la Pena, in a desperate effort to neutralize the threat, managed to draw his own revolver and fatally shot Pena. Both men were transported to the post hospital at Ft. Ringgold, Texas, where Macario Pena was pronounced dead upon arrival, and de la Pena succumbed to his injuries on the operating table in the early hours of August 3, 1925.

Survivor benefits - As per this document, his wife received $96.67 per month for her and their eight children. After 7 children turned 18, his wife received $65.25 per month for her and one child. The document states that after being shot, his last words were, "My poor family."

Gravesite

Ross A. Gardner
Date of Birth: July 9, 1900
Entered on Duty: January 2, 1925
Title: Patrol Inspector
End of Watch: October 28, 1925

Details:
On October 27, 1925, Patrol Inspector Ross A. Gardner was returning from his official station, San Diego, California, to Elsinore, California, where he was temporarily assigned. He was operating a government-owned motorcycle that he had taken to San Diego to be repaired. At Sedoc, California, about three miles east of Elsinore, Inspector Gardner ran into the rear of an automobile that was stalled on the roadway. The stalled vehicle had no lights at the time and, reportedly, headlights on a truck heading in the opposite direction hampered the officer's vision.

Patrol Inspector Gardner sustained a fractured skull, fracture of the pelvis, and internal injuries. He was conveyed to Elsinore by a passing motorist but was later transferred to the Naval Hospital in San Diego, California. Death occurred at 4:20 a.m. on October 28, 1925.

Gravesite

1926

William W. McKee
Date of Birth: July 3, 1886
Entered on Duty: February 27, 1926
Title: Patrol Inspector
End of Watch: April 23, 1926

Details:
On April 23, 1926, information was received that a liquor pack train had left Nogales, Sonora, Mexico, for the United States and on that date would be at or near the Alhambre Ranch about 40 miles southwest of Tucson, Arizona. Near the ranch, officers of the Border Patrol saw such a pack train, and in an attempt to capture it, Patrol Inspector McKee was shot and killed at the wheel of a patrol car. The smugglers fired from ambush while being pursued by Inspector McKee. The smuggler responsible for killing Inspector McKee was later convicted of first-degree murder.

Survivor benefits - As per this document, his wife received $49 per month.

Gravesite

William Llonzo “Lon” Parker
Date of Birth: April 26, 1892
Entered on Duty: September 26, 1924
Title: Patrol Inspector
End of Watch: July 25, 1926

Details:
Patrol Inspector Lon Parker was killed in a battle with alien liquor smugglers 2 1/2 miles south of Wills Ranch, west of the Huachuca Mountains, in Arizona, on July 25, 1926. Late that afternoon he left camp alone to take up the trail of mounted liquor smugglers. Tracks of a man and a horse had been discovered with evidence that the man had ridden the horse where the terrain was smooth and walked over rough places, indicating that the horse was loaded with liquor or other contraband. Nothing was heard from Inspector Parker until the Wills family returned to their ranch at about 6:00 p.m. the same day, and found him on their wood pile dying from a gunshot wound. He had been shot in the back with a rifle bullet. He died within a few minutes without regaining consciousness. During the investigation, the body of a Mexican was found about 2 1/2 miles from the Wills' home. The Mexican was identified as Artilio Espinosa, a well-known smuggler. Espinosa's horse, with 20 gallons of mescal in cans strapped on his back, was found dead of a bullet wound.

From the tracks in the area and the position of Espinosa and his horse, the investigating officers theorized that Espinosa was accompanied by another smuggler. Officer Parker rode up to Espinosa, covered him with a pistol and was shot by Espinosa's companion, who had been riding at some distance, for the purpose of protecting Espinosa and the liquor. Inspector Parker, though mortally wounded, retained sufficient command of himself to kill Espinosa and his horse, using only one shot for each, and then rode 2 1/2 miles to Wills Ranch, where he collapsed.

Survivor benefits - As per this document, his wife received $52.50 per month.

Gravesite

1927

Orin F. Hush
Date of Birth: December 11, 1896
Entered on Duty: August 18, 1925
Title: Patrol Inspector
End of Watch: January 31, 1927

In January of 1927, the local constable for Marine City, Michigan, had his home burglarized three times. He asked PI Hush for help with apprehending the suspected burglar. PI Hush and the constable took turns watching the home during the evenings. On the night of January 31, 1927, PI Hush was killed by friendly fire in a case of mistaken identity while attempting to secure the home.

PI Hush was a World War I veteran, who showed commendable dedication to his country before joining the Immigration and Naturalization Service. PI Hush entered on duty on August 18, 1925, and was assigned to the 11th District Patrol Division, Sub-District Two in Marine City, Michigan.

PI Hush’s death was initially determined to be a non-line-of-duty death. In March 2023, the circumstances of his death were re-evaluated by a panel and determined to be a line-of-duty death.

At the time of his death, PI Hush was survived by his wife Helena, who is now deceased, and sister Sadie. Current known living relatives include his niece and nephew, Alice and Chad Geurink.

Gravesite

Thad  Pippin
Date of Birth: October 16, 1889
Entered on Duty: May 17, 1926
Title: Patrol Inspector
End of Watch: April 21, 1927

Details:
Patrol Inspector Thad Pippin, El Paso, Texas, met his death in the mountains near Pelea, New Mexico, on the night of April 21, 1927, during the course of a gunfight in which he and a brother officer were engaged with smugglers.  Patrol Inspector Crossett, who was with him, was wounded four times.

On information that contraband was being smuggled into the United States, a number of Patrol Inspectors, including Inspector Pippin, went to Pelea, New Mexico. Just before dark, they discovered a pack train approaching along a trail at some distance.  The officers divided into two teams and guarded their respective trails until after dark, when they heard rapid shooting.  Officers arrived and found Officer Crossett shot four times and in urgent need of medical attention.  Officer Pippin was located and had fallen down an embankment after having been shot and killed. Nineteen gallons of liquor and two burros were seized at the time but none of the smuggling party was apprehended.

Gravesite

Franklin P. Wood
Date of Birth: September 22, 1894
Entered on Duty: March 11, 1926
Title: Patrol Inspector
End of Watch: December 15, 1927

Details:
Patrol Inspector Franklin P. Wood stationed at Sibley, Michigan, disappeared in the early morning of December 15, 1927. On the Detroit River near Wyandotte, Michigan, under cover of darkness, Patrol Inspectors Wood, James W. Oliver, and Chief Patrol Inspector Ivan A. Hall patrolled in search of smugglers expected in the area. Two boats containing contraband liquor had been seized and were being guarded when Inspector Wood left to pursue another boat operating in the vicinity of Wyandotte. He left in pursuit of one boat loaded with aliens, while his fellow officers pursued another. His wrecked boat, rammed by the smugglers, was found on the river sometime after Patrol Inspector Wood was last seen. Patrol Inspector Wood either drowned or was killed by the smugglers and thrown into the river. His body was never found.

Survivor benefits - As per this document, his mother received $22.50 per month until her death in 1931.

Body not recovered.

1928

Norman G. Ross
Date of Birth: May 15, 1901
Entered on Duty: February 23, 1926
Title: Patrol Inspector
End of Watch: February 10, 1928

Details:
Patrol Inspector Norman G. Ross was shot and killed near Kane Springs, California, on the afternoon of February 10, 1928. He had arrested two Mexican aliens and was attempting to convey them to Patrol Headquarters at El Centro. The aliens, in whose car they were being transported, had a revolver concealed in the automobile, which one of the aliens used to kill Inspector Ross. His body was found on the back seat of the aliens' abandoned car. He had been shot through the head.

Survivor benefits - As per this document, his wife received $67.50 per month for her and one child.

Gravesite

Robert H. Lobdell
Date of Birth: May 15, 1898
Entered on Duty: June 16, 1928
Title: Patrol Inspector
End of Watch: December 25, 1928

Details:
Patrol Inspector Lobdell was shot and killed instantly on the night of December 25, 1928, near Roseau, Minnesota, by an individual who was suspected of being an alien entering the United States illegally. Inspector Lobdell was shot while he was attempting to get the individual into the patrol car for transportation to Warroad, Minnesota. The murderer was apprehended the following day, but he denied his guilt and steadfastly refused to make any statement that would reveal his past history. He was later convicted and sentenced to life imprisonment in the state penitentiary at Stillwater, Minnesota. Reportedly, he subsequently corresponded with the judge of the court in which he was tried, confessing that he had killed Patrol Inspector Lobdell.

Survivor benefits - As per this document, his wife received $52.50 per month.

Gravesite

1929

Earl A. Roberts
Date of Birth: August 21, 1894
Entered on Duty: January 21, 1929
Title: Patrol Inspector
End of Watch: March 24, 1929

Details:
Patrol Inspector Earl A. Roberts was shot by a liquor smuggler at about 8:00 p.m. Saturday, March 23, 1929, and died from the wound at 5:00 p.m., Sunday, March 24, 1929. The shooting occurred on the St. Clair River, in Algonac, Michigan. Inspector Roberts was working with Patrol Inspector Stanley H. Graham, when they noticed a motorboat towing a small rowboat approaching from the direction of Canada. The officers proceeded along the shore following the course of the boat in an attempt to intercept it when the shore was reached. The officers separated in order to converge on a probable landing point. The motorboat came to the shore, at which time Patrol Inspector Roberts stepped aboard the stern of the boat and identified himself as a federal officer. Patrol Inspector Graham, who was standing on the shore a few feet from the boat, flashed his light on the occupants and observed that an individual known to him as Vet Brown was standing in the center of the boat with a .45 caliber revolver aimed at Inspector Roberts. Inspector Graham instructed Brown to surrender; however, the latter fired, point-blank, at Inspector Roberts and immediately whirled toward Inspector Graham, firing the remaining bullets in that direction. Inspector Graham emptied his gun in returning fire, but none of the shots exchanged hit their mark. A second individual in the boat, later identified as Clayton Smith, had jumped from the boat into the rowboat that was being towed and had cast-off, setting a course for Canada. Smith was a witness to the events and later testified on behalf of the government in the case against Brown.

Survivor benefits - As per this document, his wife received $82.50 per month.

Gravesite

Benjamin T. Hill
Date of Birth: October 23, 1901
Entered on Duty: May 14, 1929
Title: Patrol Inspector
End of Watch: May 30, 1929
Historic documents of the shooting.

Details:
Patrol Inspector Benjamin T. Hill was shot and killed near the international boundary, El Paso, Texas, on May 30, 1929, while pursuing a narcotics smuggler he had seen cross the Rio Grande River. While being pursued on foot through an alley, the smuggler suddenly wheeled and shot Inspector Hill through the heart, killing him instantly.

Gravesite

Ivan E. Scotten
Date of Birth: June 17, 1903
Entered on Duty: October 29, 1928
Title: Patrol Inspector
End of Watch: July 20, 1929
Historic photograph of the scene of the shooting.

Details:
Patrol Inspector Ivan E. Scotten was shot and killed in the early morning of July 20, 1929. Scotten and three other Patrol Inspectors were ambushed by approximately 15 to 20 smugglers while patrolling at the upper Los Pompos crossing on the Rio Grande River, near San Elizario, Texas. The smugglers, who had come off second best in a brush with Patrol Inspectors earlier in the night, saw the lights of the returning patrol car, crossed the river to the American side, and hid themselves in the brush at the side of the narrow road along an irrigation ditch that the road crossed. They opened fire on the patrol car from two sides at almost point blank range, killing Scotten before the other officers succeeded in driving them off. One of the smugglers fired a shot through Scotten's head while Scotten lay wounded in the road.

Survivor benefits - As per this document, his mother receive $18.75 per month.

Gravesite

Myles J. Scannell
Date of Birth: December 19, 1895
Entered on Duty: September 27, 1921
Title: Senior Patrol Inspector
End of Watch: September 9, 1929

Details:
Senior Patrol Inspector, Myles J. Scannell, Marfa, Texas, was shot and killed on September 9, 1929, on the banks of the Rio Grande River near Polvo, Texas, southeast of Presidio. Inspector Scannell was working alone and apparently was attempting to arrest several aliens. Signs indicated that, while walking with the individuals he had in custody, Inspector Scannell was shot from ambush by someone else. His body bore two bullet and fifteen stab wounds. There is no information available concerning whether or not the killer or killers were identified or apprehended.

Inspector Scannell had entered the Service as a Mounted Watchman in September 1921, at Presidio. He was among the first Patrol Inspectors to be appointed to the Border Patrol in 1924, and became a Senior Patrol Inspector in July 1926.

See this 1929 testimonial from his brother officers written the day after his murder. Here is a cleaner version of the document.

Survivor benefits - As per this document, his wife received $78.74 per month for her and their child.

Gravesite

1930

William D. McCalib
Date of Birth: December 20, 1895
Entered on Duty: December 4, 1928
Title: Patrol Inspector
End of Watch: January 7, 1930

Details:
On January 7, 1930, Patrol Inspector McCalib, together with Senior Patrol Inspector West, apprehended Pedro Rendon, at Alice, Texas. Rendon was suspected of being an alien unlawfully in the United States. Rendon claimed that the proprietor of a restaurant in Alice could vouch for him and, accordingly, the officers put Rendon in the back seat of the car and drove to the restaurant. Senior Patrol Inspector West entered the establishment to interview the proprietor while Inspector McCalib remained in the car with Rendon. During West's absence, Rendon drew a pistol and shot McCalib in the back of the head, killing him instantly. Rendon was subdued and taken into custody by Senior Patrol Inspector West. It was later discovered that Rendon, alias Jose Ramirez, was an escaped convict.

Survivor benefits - As per this document, his wife received $69.75 per month for her and their child. Upon the death of his wife, his child received $38.75 per month.

Gravesite

Harry E. Vincent
Date of Birth: October 3, 1895
Entered on Duty: February 16, 1926
Title: Patrol Inspector
End of Watch: March 25, 1930

Details:
During the evening of March 23, 1930, Senior Patrol Inspector James E. Renshaw and Patrol Inspector Harry E. Vincent were inspecting northbound traffic about one mile north of Oceanside, California. The traffic check operation was being conducted on a temporary roadway where new construction was underway. At 10:00 p.m., an automobile traveling in a southerly direction missed the detour and struck down Officers Renshaw and Vincent. Both officers were knocked unconscious. A bystander, Mr. William Trotter, took charge of the situation. Mr. Trotter had the officers transported to a clinic in Oceanside. He also sent word to other Patrol Inspectors working nearby in conjunction with the traffic check operation.

Senior Patrol Inspector Renshaw was not seriously injured but Patrol Inspector Vincent was in serious condition with a fractured skull. The following day preliminary arrangements were made to move Inspector Vincent to the Navy Hospital in San Diego, California, but after consultation by several doctors, it was agreed that there was little chance for recovery and no chance at all, if Inspector Vincent was moved. Patrol Inspector Vincent passed away at 5:00 a.m., March 25, 1930.

Survivor benefits - As per this document, his wife received $75 for her and their child per month. Upon his wife remarrying, the child received $41.67 per month.

Gravesite

Robert W. Kelsay
Date of Birth: January 23, 1899
Entered on Duty: July 1, 1927
Title: Senior Patrol Inspector
End of Watch: June 25, 1930

Details:
During the night of June 25, 1930, Senior Patrol Inspector Robert W. Kelsay and another officer were watching a river crossing near Laredo, Texas. They were fired upon by liquor smugglers whom they had attempted to stop. During the gunbattle, Senior Patrol Inspector Kelsay was fatally wounded. There is no information available regarding the identity of the smugglers.

Survivor benefits - As per this document, his wife received $58.33 per month.

Gravesite

1932

Frank Vidmar, Jr.
Date of Birth: September 20, 1901
Entered on Duty: July 6, 1931
Title: Patrol Inspector
End of Watch: March 24, 1932

Details:
Patrol Inspectors Frank Vidmar, Jr. and James W. Hudson were performing voluntary extra duty in the vicinity of Lewiston, New York, in an effort to apprehend a known alien smuggler. Since the government vehicle customarily used was known to the smuggler, the personal automobile of Patrol Inspector Vidmar was being used, with Inspector Hudson doing the driving. The smuggler was encountered in his automobile, accompanied by two other persons, at Lewiston Heights during the early morning hours. He disregarded the command of the officers to stop, and increased the speed of his vehicle trying to escape. The officers gave chase pursuing the smuggler's car at 50 miles per hour into the city of Niagara Falls. At a curve in the roadway, the officers' car skidded on the icy pavement and collided broadside with an oncoming trolley car, demolishing the car owned by Patrol Inspector Vidmar, and causing injuries that resulted in his death. Inspector Vidmar died at 4:52 p.m., March 24, 1932, after failing to regain consciousness. He sustained a fractured skull, brain concussion, and a crushed chest. Patrol Inspector Hudson was badly injured but survived.

Survivor benefits - As per this document, his wife received $67.50 per month for her and their child.

Gravesite

Charles F. Inch
Date of Birth: April 8, 1902
Entered on Duty: October 14, 1930
Title: Patrol Inspector
End of Watch: June 26, 1932

Details:
The limited information available relative to Patrol Inspector Charles F. Inch indicates that he was attempting to board a moving freight train but was thrown from it, the wheels passing over his body. He was pursuing two aliens who were attempting to enter illegally from Canada. The fatal accident occurred in the Michigan Central tunnel yard at Detroit, Michigan, on June 26, 1932.

Survivor benefits - As per this document, his mother and father received $46.50 per month.

Gravesite

1933

Philip D. Strobridge
Date of Birth: December 28, 1904
Entered on Duty: October 1, 1930
Title: Patrol Inspector
End of Watch: March 7, 1933

Details:
In the early morning hours of March 2, 1933, Patrol Inspectors Philip D. Strobridge and Harold W. Brown were injured when the government automobile in which they were riding left the highway in a fog near Fallbrook, California. The officers, accompanied by Senior Patrol Inspector Irvin J. Curtis of Elsinore, California, had been detailed to Los Angeles to appear before a Federal Grand Jury and to work information relative to smuggling in aircraft.

The three officers left Los Angeles at approximately 11:00 p.m., enroute to Elsinore and then on to Chula Vista. They encountered heavy fog, which hampered the driver's vision and prompted very slow driving. Near Puente, they came upon an accident on the highway in which several persons had been severely injured. The Patrol Inspectors spent about 45 minutes at the scene of the wreck directing traffic to keep the road clear and to prevent further accidents.They were relieved on arrival of Los Angeles County Deputy Sheriffs and resumed their return trip to Elsinore where Inspector Curtis lived.

Reports of the accident revealed the government automobile left the highway on an "S" turn and crashed into a concrete abutment. Patrol Inspector Strobridge suffered a frontal fracture of the skull. He was transported to the U.S. Naval Hospital, San Diego, where he passed away at 1:35 p.m. on March 7, 1933.

Gravesite

Doyne C. Melton
Date of Birth: January 17, 1902
Entered on Duty: October 29, 1927
Title: Patrol Inspector
End of Watch: December 7, 1933

Details:
Patrol Inspector Doyne C. Melton was shot and killed in a battle with Mexican smugglers at El Paso, on December 7, 1933. Six Patrol Inspectors were moving up in the darkness on seventeen Mexican smugglers who were wading across the river with packs of liquor. One of three smugglers acting as spotters who had preceded the main body of the smugglers over the river, concealed beneath a platform on the American side, opened hostilities by shooting Inspector Melton. The opening shot was fired without warning and before any challenge had been given. Inspector Melton was shot through the heart, dying instantly. The bitterness of the fight was evidenced by the fact that in addition to the slaying of Inspector Melton, four smugglers were killed and another was wounded.

Survivor benefits - As per this document, his wife received $54.25 per month.

Gravesite

Bert G. Walthall
Date of Birth: February 27, 1900
Entered on Duty: July 31, 1931
Title: Patrol Inspector
End of Watch: December 27, 1933
Historical documents of the shooting - 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8

Details:
On the evening of December 27, 1933, Patrol Inspectors Bert G. Walthall, Louis A. Smith, and Curtis D. Mosely were patrolling the international boundary near Cordova Island at El Paso, Texas. Cordova Island is not in fact an island, but Mexican territory left on the north side of the Rio Grande River when the river changed its course. The boundary here was an imaginary line and a person could step across from one country to another.

At about 8:45 p.m., the officers noticed two men cross the line with sacks on their backs and depart in a waiting automobile. The officers attempted to stop the car by blowing their horn but the smugglers only increased their speed. After a chase of a couple of blocks, the patrol car overtook the smugglers, who pulled over to the side of the road. Before the patrol car could be stopped, it had arrived alongside the smugglers' car, about ten feet to the left of it. Inspector Mosely was driving, Inspector Walthall was sitting beside him, and Inspector Smith was in the back seat. When the patrol car stopped, Officers Walthall and Smith alighted from the right side. They were met by a blast of rifle fire from the smugglers that instantly killed Inspector Walthall and wounded Inspector Smith. Inspector Mosely had gotten out of the car on the left side and opened fire on the smugglers, whose car was then in motion. Inspector Mosely continued shooting with his rifle and pistol until his weapons were empty and then turned his attention to his fellow officers.

Survivor benefits - As per this document, his wife received $67.50 per month for her and their child.

Gravesite

1940

William L. Sills
Date of Birth: August 21, 1909
Entered on Duty: May 16, 1936
Title: Patrol Inspector
End of Watch: January 17, 1940

Details:
Patrol Inspector William L. Sills was killed on January 17, 1940, while on night patrol duty at a crossing on the Rio Grande River in the vicinity of La Grulla, Texas. On the date mentioned, three Patrol Inspectors, William L. Sills, Albin Ulrickson (1914-1987), and Leslie H. Buchanan (1911-1999), encountered three smugglers transporting contraband.

Two of them were taken into custody, and Patrol Inspector Sills, in attempting to cut off the escape of the third smuggler, was shot at close range and fatally wounded. Before falling, Inspector Sills returned the smuggler's fire and killed him. The smuggler, a Mexican alien, had previously been deported from the United States.

Patrol Inspector Sills died in an ambulance enroute to the hospital at McAllen, Texas, where he was stationed. The two smugglers who were apprehended were arraigned on smuggling charges and for complicity in the killing.

Gravesite

George E. Pringle
Date of Birth: August 24, 1896
Entered on Duty: June 5, 1936
Title: Patrol Inspector
End of Watch: December 28, 1940

Details:
During the evening of December 25, 1940, Patrol Inspector George E. Pringle was working alone near Parker, Arizona. He was engaged in conversation with a Special Agent for the Metropolitan Water District of Southern California, when he indicated he was going to follow a car that had just passed. The vehicle was known to both men as belonging to a group of aliens suspected of illegal activities in connection with the Parker Dam.

Inspector Pringle was next observed driving south on Parker Road. Two witnesses indicated the government vehicle being driven by Inspector Pringle veered toward the center of the road and swerved to the right off the roadway overturning several times. Inspector Pringle sustained multiple injuries including contusions of the upper frontal region of the skull and a fracture at the base of the skull. He died of injuries received in the accident on December 28, 1940.

Subsequent investigation revealed that the accident occurred as a result of a blow out of the right front tire that was caused by the tire passing over a broken bottle in the roadway.

Gravesite

1941

Robert J. Heibler
Date of Birth: January 28, 1916
Entered on Duty: April 30, 1941
Title: Patrol Inspector
End of Watch: September 7, 1941

Details:
During the evening of September 7, 1941, Patrol Inspectors Robert J. Heibler and Eldon C. Wade were on duty inspecting traffic on U.S. Highway #90 about three miles west of Uvalde, Texas. At approximately 9:00 p.m., one of the road flares used to warn approaching traffic was blown out by the wind, and Patrol Inspector Heibler, while relighting it, was struck by a passing automobile and dragged about 20 feet. The automobile did not stop and Inspector Wade did not pursue it at the time feeling that it was more important that he render first aid to Inspector Heibler. He began artificial respiration. About 15 minutes later, a physician reached the scene of the accident, gave Inspector Heibler an injection of adrenalin, and continued artificial respiration; however, the officer died within a few minutes.

Gravesite

1942

Ralph W. Ramsey
Date of Birth: February 22, 1915
Entered on Duty: May 29, 1941
Title: Patrol Inspector
End of Watch: February 26, 1942

Details:
Patrol Inspector Ralph W. Ramsey was killed on February 26, 1942, in Columbus, New Mexico, while attempting to board a freight train in search of aliens illegally in the United States. Patrol Inspector Harry E. Lennon, in charge of the two-man unit stationed in Columbus, was working with Inspector Ramsey at the time of the accident and related the following concerning the events at the time of the accident. The officers, while patrolling to the east of Columbus, observed an open boxcar on a regular westbound freight heading towards Columbus. The officers returned to Columbus, checked an eastbound freight train at a siding, and awaited the incoming westbound train. Inspector Ramsey took up a position between the siding and the main line while Inspector Lennon stood opposite him across the main line tracks. It was customary that the train crew halt the westbound freight at a water tower.

The officers had stationed themselves in the vicinity of the open boxcar they had observed. On this occasion; however, the train did not stop, proceeding on in order to clear the main track for the train on the siding. Apparently, Inspector Ramsey attempted to board the train when the open boxcar passed him. The first indication Inspector Lennon had that an accident had occurred was when he noticed an object beneath the moving train and realized it was his partner's body. As soon as the train passed, Inspector Lennon rushed to Inspector Ramsey. Death occurred within seconds after he reached his side.

Gravesite

1944

Garvis Field Harrell - Unrecognized but Unforgotten
Date of Birth: September 1, 1907
Entered on Duty: March 1944
Title: Patrol Inspector
End of Watch: April 24, 1944

Details:On April 24, 1944, Border Patrol Inspector Garvis Field Harrell of the Harlingen Border Patrol Station, McAllen Texas Sector, was on a foot pursuit of an illegal alien in the heavy brush outside the town of Rangerville near the Rio Grande River, when he collapsed and suffered a heart attack. His fellow Patrol Inspectors found him shortly afterwards and he was rushed to the Valley Baptist Hospital where he died a few hours later. The subject Harrell was pursuing was apprehended and taken to the Harlingen City Jail. Patrol Inspector Garvis Field Harrell was 36 years old and had only been with the U.S. Border Patrol for a month. Patrol Inspector Harrell was a veteran of World War II having seen combat with the U.S. Marines.

Gravesite

1945

Earl F. Fleckinger
Date of Birth: July 25, 1917
Entered on Duty: September 8, 1941
Title: Patrol Inspector
End of Watch: June 23, 1945

Details:
At about 3:00 p.m. on the afternoon of June 23, 1945, Patrol Inspectors Earl F. Fleckinger and Wilbur E. Kinney were patrolling on U.S. Highway No. 98 about 1 1/2 miles east of Calexico, California, when they stopped and searched an automobile driven by a Mexican alien. Search of the automobile disclosed a quantity of liquor in the rear compartment, whereupon the alien was placed under arrest. The officers then started west toward Calexico with the alien. Inspector Fleckinger was driving the government automobile with the alien seated beside him and Inspector Kinney was following immediately behind in the alien's automobile. They had proceeded about one mile when Mr. Kinney heard two shots and observed the government automobile swerve off the road and into an adjacent canal bank.

Mr. Kinney stopped the alien's car about 10 or 15 yards ahead of the government car, and while he was attempting to get out of the automobile, the alien fired four shots, which failed to hit him. Inspector Kinney pursued, caught and subdued the alien, and left him in an apparently unconscious condition lying prone in the center of the highway. Mr. Kinney then went to the aid of Inspector Fleckinger, at which time his attention was drawn back to the alien who was observed to be staggering across the international boundary into Mexico.

Inspector Fleckinger was taken to a hospital in Calexico by a passerby. He had been shot in the head, which resulted in his death about 6:15 p.m. on the same day.

Gravesite

Ned D. Henderson
Date of Birth: December 19, 1905
Entered on Duty: December 26, 1929
Title: Autogiro Pilot
End of Watch: November 18, 1945

Details:
Ned D. Henderson, Autogiro Pilot, died on November 18, 1945, from injuries he received two days earlier when the autogiro he was piloting crashed near Sullivan City, Texas. Pilot Henderson was enroute to his official station at McAllen, Texas, following a detail to San Antonio. He was alone in the plane when it crashed at about 1:00 p.m., November 16, 1945.

A witness to the accident, Mr. Francisco Flores, stated that he noticed the aircraft coming from the west just before or about the time it hit an electric highline. The autogiro hit the ground and turned over about two times before it came to rest. Mr. Flores stopped his truck and ran over to the aircraft. He rushed over to Pilot Henderson, who was rolling on the ground just outside of the autogiro, his clothes and gloves on fire. Mr. Flores extinguished the flames and then improvised a shade from a blanket he had in his truck. Pilot Henderson was later removed to the McAllen Municipal Hospital by ambulance.

A physician's certificate indicates that Pilot Henderson suffered extensive burns about the face, neck, arms and legs; fracture of the right arm below the shoulder; and a deep cut across the forehead and right cheek. Death occurred at 1:30 a.m., November 18, 1945, about 36 hours after the accident.

Gravesite

1947

Anthony L. Oneto
Date of Birth: December 29, 1916
Entered on Duty: October 24, 1940
Title: Patrol Inspector
End of Watch: March 11, 1947

Details:
On March 11, 1947, while conducting routine traffic checks near Indio, California, Patrol Inspectors Anthony L. Oneto and John L. Fouquette arrested Carlos Ochoa Romero in the act of hauling four smuggled aliens. The aliens were placed in the back seat of the government car and Ochoa was instructed to drive his car to the Border Patrol Office. After a short time, Ochoa stopped his car, which was being followed by the government car, walked back, said something about his car stalling, pulled a.32 caliber pistol from his pocket, and began firing at the officers. Inspector Oneto was struck four times in the head and died instantly. Patrol Inspector Fouquette was wounded but returned the fire, wounding Ochoa, who escaped in the darkness. In spite of this activity, Inspector Fouquette was able to retain custody of the smuggled aliens until help arrived.

Gravesite

1950

Michael T. Box
Date of Birth: August 4, 1901
Entered on Duty: November 25, 1926
Title: Airplane Pilot
End of Watch: August 29, 1950

Details:
Just after dawn on August 29, 1950, Airplane Pilot Michael T. Box was patrolling by plane in the irrigated farm area about 20 miles north of El Paso, Texas, searching for aliens who had walked through the desert at night and were attempting to get away to the north through the upper Rio Grande Valley. Pilot Box was working with two ground crews who were in radio-equipped jeeps. The operation had netted several aliens and others were being sought when the engine of the aircraft stopped and the plane crashed. It burst into flames; however, fellow officers were able to remove Pilot Box from the aircraft within minutes after the crash occurred. Artificial respiration was commenced immediately and was continued until Pilot Box was pronounced dead by a doctor who lived nearby.

Investigation into the accident revealed that the motor of the aircraft ceased apparently due to difficulty in the fuel system. Pilot Box maintained control of the plane as it lost altitude and maneuvered the aircraft into position to make an emergency landing in an irrigation ditch. The aircraft struck a submerged object on the canal bottom upon impact. Pilot Box's seat strap was broken and he was thrown with terrific force into the wheel and instrument panel. He died instantly as his chest and skull were crushed, his jawbone was broken in two places, and both shoulders were broken.

Gravesite

Richard D. Clarke
Date of Birth: December 6, 1926
Entered on Duty: February 23, 1949
Title: Patrol Inspector
End of Watch: December 18, 1950

Details:
At about 1:00 p.m. on December 18, 1950, Patrol Inspector Richard D. Clarke and his teammate, Patrol Inspector Ralph L. Trantor, took Eulalio Cordero, an illegal alien, into custody in south El Paso. They were bringing him to headquarters by automobile for further questioning when the alien suddenly stabbed Inspector Clarke in the heart. His death was instantaneous. The alien then seized Inspector Trantor's gun. Patrol Inspector Trantor slammed on the car's brakes, held on to the gun and threw himself into the back seat where he grappled with the alien and succeeded in holding him until police officers arrived. During the struggle, Trantor's gun was discharged once, the bullet passing through a car seat. Inspector Trantor was badly bitten on the face and arms.

The incident began as a routine immigration procedure. Inspector Clarke questioned Cordero on a street in El Paso, Texas. First claiming to be a citizen of the United States, he later admitted he was an illegal alien. Cordero was charged with murder.

Gravesite

1952

Edwin H. Wheeler
Date of Birth: November 1, 1908
Entered on Duty: November 12, 1940
Title: Patrol Inspector in Charge
End of Watch: July 6, 1952

Details:
At about 9:45 p.m. on July 6, 1952, Patrol Inspector in Charge Edwin H. Wheeler was involved in a head-on auto collision on Highway 59 near a bridge spanning the Nueces River approximately four miles south of Mathis, Texas, in San Patricio County. Inspector Wheeler was in a government automobile traveling in a southerly direction after having been in Mathis on official business. It collided with an automobile driven by Milton Mareth, who was hospitalized with a fractured left arm. Three other passengers with Mareth received superficial cuts and bruises.

Shortly after the accident, Inspector Wheeler's body was discovered lying on the front seat of the automobile, which had traveled over 400 feet beyond the point of original impact. His body was positioned as though it had fallen from behind the steering wheel, giving the appearance that he had been driving the automobile.

Inspector Wheeler was pronounced dead by a nurse who stopped at the scene of the accident. The body was removed to a mortuary in Alice, Texas, where, at 1:30 p.m. the following day, a bullet hole was discovered in Inspector Wheeler's head. An autopsy performed on July 7, 1952, revealed death was instantaneous from a bullet wound in the head above the right ear.

Investigation into various aspects of the case led to the conclusion that Inspector Wheeler was shot to death by an unknown person or persons.

Gravesite

1954

Donald Kee
Date of Birth: July 29, 1912
Entered on Duty: July 31, 1944
Title: Patrol Inspector
End of Watch: July 23, 1954

Details:
Patrol Inspector Donald Kee's official station was Mission, Texas; however, at the time of his death, he was on official detail, assigned to the Special Mobile Task Force with headquarters at McAllen, Texas. This task force was engaged in a special program conducted by the Service to bring the "wetback" situation under control.

On July 23, 1954, Patrol Inspector Kee was assigned to serve as observer during a flight wherein the aircraft worked in conjunction with ground units checking laborers on farms in the vicinity of Rio Grande City, Texas. The aircraft was piloted by William F. Buckelew.

The joint operation had resulted in ten aliens being taken into custody by the ground teams. The patrol aircraft had just made a low pass over a cotton field near the Rio Grande River and was banking to return to the field when it was seen to spin and plunge into the river. The plane burst into flames, which hampered rescue operations by officers and bystanders in the area. Several persons were hospitalized suffering from burns sustained in the rescue efforts. Patrol Inspector Kee was killed instantly. A Justice of the Peace held an inquest upon arrival at the scene of the accident and pronounced Inspector Kee dead. Pilot Buckelew was still alive when removed from the plane but was pronounced dead upon arrival at the hospital.

Gravesite

William F. Buckelew
Date of Birth: December 21, 1918
Entered on Duty: December 28, 1944
Title: Airplane Pilot
End of Watch: July 23, 1954

Details:
Airplane pilot William F. Buckelew was stationed at Laredo, Texas; however, at the time of his death, he was on official detail, assigned to the Special Mobile Task Force with headquarters at McAllen, Texas. This task force was engaged in a special program conducted by the Service to bring the "wetback" situation under control.

On July 23, 1954, Airplane Pilot Buckelew was assigned to serve as pilot during a flight wherein the aircraft worked in conjunction with ground units checking laborers on farms in the vicinity of Rio Grande City, Texas. Patrol Inspector Donald Kee was on the flight as an observer.

The joint operation had resulted in ten aliens being taken into custody by the ground teams. The patrol aircraft had just made a low pass over a cotton field near the Rio Grande River and was banking to return to the field when it was seen to spin and plunge into the river. The plane burst into flames, which hampered rescue operations by officers and bystanders in the area. Several persons were hospitalized suffering from burns sustained in the rescue efforts. The crash occurred about 4:00 p.m., approximately two miles downstream from the Rio Grande City Bridge. Pilot Buckelew was still alive when he was removed from the plane but died 45 minutes later at the hospital.

Gravesite

James M. Kirchner
Date of Birth: December 15, 1931
Entered on Duty: November 3, 1954
Title: Patrol Inspector (Trainee)
End of Watch: November 15, 1954

Details:
While waiting to attend a training session at the Border Patrol Academy that was scheduled to commence in December, Trainee Kirchner and other new appointees were assigned to work with older and more experienced officers in and around El Paso.

On November 15, 1954, Trainee Kirchner was assigned to work the 3:00 p.m. to 11:00 p.m. with Inspector Dove. Trainee Kirchner saw three persons coming from the direction of Mexico. The persons were up in the hills and estimated to be about 1/2 mile away. Inspector Dove and Trainee Kirchner proceeded on foot, separating. Inspector Dove intercepted the suspects and determined that they were of Mexican extraction and citizens of the United States. Trainee Kirchner was observed near the top of the hill and instructed, through hand signals, to return. During the descent, Trainee Kirchner was out of the view of Inspector Dove. When Trainee Kirchner did not return in a reasonable time and did not respond to being called, Inspector Dove began searching for him. Trainee Kirchner was found slumped to the ground, face forward. After a hurried examination, Inspector Dove applied artificial respiration in an effort to revive Trainee Kirchner but was unsuccessful. Leaving one of the citizens with the body. Inspector Dove went to the McNutt Oil Refinery and called Border Patrol Headquarters. He then returned to the scene and waited until Trainee Kirchner's body was removed.

Gravesite

1956

Douglas C. Shute
Date of Birth: December 31, 1918
Entered on Duty: September 5, 1950
Title: Airplane Pilot
End of Watch: June 6, 1956

Details:
During the morning hours of June 6, 1956, Airplane Pilot Douglas C. Shute was patrolling in a Piper Supercub. He was working with a ground unit engaged in “sign-cutting,” a term applied to locating and following footprints or other physical evidence left by a person in traversing an area. Pilot Shute landed the plane on a roadway and conferred with Patrol Inspectors James M. Carter, Emmit R. Brotherton, and Carter M. Newsome. The ground crew had located the tracks of two persons, which could more readily be checked out by officers in the aircraft. Patrol Inspector James M. Carter decided to serve as observer in the aircraft while the other officers continued to follow the tracks on the ground. Pilot Shute informed the officers by radio that the walkers had been located and instructed to come out of the brush to be picked up by the ground crew.

Shortly thereafter, the plane went into a steep climb and stalled. It began a left spin from which there was no recovery. It struck the ground in vertical descent. The engine was driven back into the cockpit, the force of the impact telescoping the cabin, imprisoning the pilot and observer. Both were killed on impact.

Gravesite

James M. Carter
Date of Birth: February 26, 1921
Entered on Duty: April 25, 1955
Title: Patrol Inspector
End of Watch: June 6, 1956

Details:
Patrol Inspectors James M. Carter and Carter M. Newsome were temporarily detailed from Marfa, Texas, to Comstock, Texas, on June 4, 1956, for a two-week horse patrol operation to work in the vicinity of Comstock. On June 6th these officers, accompanied by Patrol Inspector Emmit R. Brotherton, were about 35 miles north northwest of Comstock engaged in “sign-cutting,” a term applied to locating and following footprints or other physical evidence left by a person traversing an area. The officers had located two sets of footprints and were tracking them when Service aircraft N4375A, piloted by Airplane Pilot Douglas G. Shute, arrived. Thereafter, the aircraft was used in the search operation with Patrol Inspector Carter serving as observer in the plane.

At about 10:00 a.m., the pilot reported by radio that the walkers had been located and directed the ground crew on a course to intercept them. The plane was then seen making a banking turn to the left and resuming level flight at 100 feet altitude. Shortly thereafter, the plane went into a steep climb and at 450 feet, it stalled, falling into a left spin from which there was no recovery. There had been no change in engine power during the maneuver, in the spin, or at impact. The plane struck the ground in vertical descent, the engine being driven back into the cockpit. The force of the impact telescoped the cabin, imprisoning the pilot and observer.

Gravesite

John A. Rector
Date of Birth: August 23, 1898
Entered on Duty: March 13, 1928
Title: Patrol Inspector
End of Watch: October 16, 1956

Details:
At approximately 11:30 a.m., October 16, 1956, Patrol Inspector John A. Rector was accidently shot by the firing of a .357 Magnum revolver by fellow officer, Bill Jordan. The mishap occurred at the Chula Vista Sector Headquarters as two officers were discussing various guns and their limitations and advantages. During the course of the conversation, the .357 Magnum was unloaded, examined, then reloaded, and placed in a desk drawer. The two officers then examined a .22 revolver and soon the discussion returned to the .357 Magnum. At this point, Patrol Inspector Jordan reached into the desk drawer, picked up the pistol, and without realizing that it had been reloaded, pulled the trigger.

The bullet passed through a partition wall into Patrol Inspector Rector's office where it struck him in the left jaw and ranged up through his head. Upon arrival of an ambulance and a doctor, Patrol Inspector Rector was removed to the Paradise Valley Hospital in National City. Two neurosurgeons from San Diego were called; however, nothing could be done for Inspector Rector. He died at approximately 2:00 p.m. the same day.

Gravesite

1960

Archie L. Jennings
Date of Birth: May 6, 1923
Entered on Duty: October 15, 1956
Title: Patrol Inspector
End of Watch: April 16, 1960

Details:
On April 16, 1960, Patrol Inspectors Robert M. Chaldu, Archie L. Jennings, and Gordon G. Hanks were assigned to duty from midnight to 8:00 a.m. at a traffic checkpoint known as San Mateo Flats, on Highway 101, about 18 miles north of Oceanside, California. The operation was concerned primarily with locating deportable aliens and alien smugglers who were enroute from the border to interior destinations. All vehicular traffic was stopped and inspected with a view to determining the citizenship status of the occupants.

At about 6:40 a.m., an automobile went through the checkpoint without slowing down, whereupon Inspector Chaldu pursued the car in a patrol vehicle. At that time, Inspector Jennings was manning the traffic check at the stop sign where vehicles are halted. A car driven by Mr. Francis J. Defazio approached the stop sign, and his car was struck from behind by a speeding automobile operated by Mr. Gabriel Montoya. On impact, Mr. Defazio's car went out of control and struck Inspector Jennings, knocking him 50 feet away.

Inspector Jennings was pronounced dead upon arrival at the hospital. The cause of death was listed as basilar fractures of the skull. In addition, he suffered numerous contusions, fractures and lacerations.

Gravesite

1961

Kenneth L. Carl
Date of Birth: September 5, 1926
Entered on Duty: August 17, 1953
Title: Airplane Pilot
End of Watch: June 18, 1961

Details:
During the hours after midnight on Saturday, June 17, 1961, several jeep teams composed of Patrol Inspectors from Calexico, California, tracked two illegal aliens to an alfalfa field near El Centro, California. Personnel of the jeep patrol encircled the field and prevented possible egress of the aliens. At dawn on June 18, 1961, officers at the scene initiated a radio message to Sector for aerial patrol assistance in spotting the aliens.

Pilot Kenneth L. Carl was airborne at approximately 5:30 a.m. in a Piper Supercub. He immediately initiated low observation passes over the field. In a short time, one of the illegal aliens raised his head above the level of the alfalfa and was spotted by the pilot and ground units. When the first capture had been accomplished, the Patrol Inspectors ascertained the description, dress, and name of the second alien and radioed that information to Pilot Carl. The pilot was reported to have been flying at reduced air speed and very close to the ground, when the aircraft stalled and struck the ground. Pilot Carl was pronounced dead prior to being removed from the scene of the accident. It was later ascertained that his heart had been crushed within the rib cage on impact with the instrument panel.

Gravesite

1967

Richard A. Lugo
Date of Birth: August 14, 1935
Entered on Duty: July 18, 1966
Title: Patrol Inspector (Trainee)
End of Watch: May 14, 1967

Details:
On May 14, 1967, Patrol Inspectors (Trainee) Richard A. Lugo and Bruce A. Plaskett were assigned to maintain sign cutting drag strips and to deliver tire drags to selected sites. They were enroute from their official station, Yuma, Arizona, to Andrade, California, traveling north on Levee Road at approximately 40 miles per hour. Without advance indication that anything was wrong, the right rear tire of the 1966 International Scout suddenly deflated, causing the rear end of the vehicle to swerve radically. Trainee Lugo lost control of the vehicle, which skidded and overturned. The vehicle came to rest on its left side with the top crushed in almost to the level of the body. Trainee Lugo was killed instantly, his head having been crushed when the vehicle overturned.

Gravesite

Theodore L. Newton, Jr.
Date of Birth: July 30, 1941
Entered on Duty: April 11, 1966
Title: Patrol Inspector
End of Watch: June 17, 1967

Details:
Patrol Inspector Theodore Lawrence Newton, Jr., and Patrol Inspector (Trainee) George Frederick Azrak were found murdered in a remote deserted mountain cabin on June 19, 1967, following an intensive 48-hour search after they disappeared while on official duty. The men were kidnapped from their post during a traffic check operation near Oak Grove, California, in the early morning hours of June 17, 1967. The officers failed to report in and a hurried search failed to reveal the whereabouts of the men and their two vehicles, a jeep and a Border Patrol sedan. The Service jeep was soon located about a mile from the checkpoint.  On June 19, 1967, a member of a jeep club from Hemet, California, spotted the missing Service sedan. The sedan had been covered with brush fifty feet from the deserted shack, where the posse located the bodies of the missing patrolmen.

In reconstructing the crimes, it now appears that Patrol Inspectors Newton and Azrak intercepted a vehicle with over 800 pounds of marijuana. While checking this vehicle, the officers were overpowered by four convicted felons, two of whom had been following the load of marijuana in a second vehicle. The officers were then taken to the mountain cabin where they were made to lie prone with their arms extended toward each other. The right wrist of one man was handcuffed to the left wrist of the other, and vice versa. While incapacitated in this manner they were shot and killed.  Autopsies performed revealed Patrol Inspector Newton had been shot once in the head while three shots were fired into Patrol Inspector Azrak, two in the head and one in the chest. Their bodies bore no marks to indicate there had been a struggle.

Gravesite

George F. Azrak
Date of Birth: June 30, 1945
Entered on Duty: May 15, 1967
Title: Patrol Inspector (Trainee)
End of Watch: June 17, 1967

Details:
Patrol Inspector Theodore Lawrence Newton, Jr., and Patrol Inspector (Trainee) George Frederick Azrak were found murdered in a remote deserted mountain cabin on June 19, 1967, following an intensive 48-hour search after they disappeared while on official duty. The men were kidnapped from their post during a traffic check operation near Oak Grove, California, in the early morning hours of June 17, 1967. The officers failed to report in and a hurried search failed to reveal the whereabouts of the men and their two vehicles, a jeep and a Border Patrol sedan. The Service jeep was soon located about a mile from the checkpoint.  On June 19, 1967, a member of a jeep club from Hemet, California, spotted the missing Service sedan. The sedan had been covered with brush fifty feet from the deserted shack, where the posse located the bodies of the missing patrolmen.

In reconstructing the crimes, it now appears that Patrol Inspectors Newton and Azrak intercepted a vehicle with over 800 pounds of marijuana. While checking this vehicle, the officers were overpowered by four convicted felons, two of whom had been following the load of marijuana in a second vehicle. The officers were then taken to the mountain cabin where they were made to lie prone with their arms extended toward each other. The right wrist of one man was handcuffed to the left wrist of the other, and vice versa. While incapacitated in this manner they were shot and killed.  Autopsies performed revealed Patrol Inspector Newton had been shot once in the head while three shots were fired into Patrol Inspector Azrak, two in the head and one in the chest. Their bodies bore no marks to indicate there had been a struggle.

Gravesite

Elgar B. Holliday
Date of Birth: October 6, 1911
Entered on Duty: June 19, 1944
Title: Senior Patrol Inspector
End of Watch: October 18, 1967

Details:
In September 1967, Hurricane Beulah struck the lower Rio Grande Valley and adjacent areas causing extensive wind and flood damage. During the emergency, Patrol Inspectors rendered assistance in the protection of life and property, performing exhaustive and arduous tasks and working long periods of time without rest or relief. Senior Patrol Inspector Elgar B. Holliday was engaged in continuous emergency work assignments for three days. During the third day, September 24, 1967, he was stricken, suffering from extreme shortness of breath and pains in the chest. Showing signs of complete exhaustion, he was taken to a doctor, who gave him an injection and diagnosed the difficulty as heart failure due to over-exertion. Mr. Holliday was subsequently placed in the St. Joseph's Hospital, Houston, Texas, where he died on October 18, 1967.

Gravesite

...Patrol Inspector “Doc” Holliday was considered “The Father of the Border Patrol Canine Program” for his pioneer work in McAllen, El Centro and other Southwest Sectors training handlers and working with a variety of dogs. “Doc” Holliday would later become the “Senior” of the Falfurrias Station, TX, and would die in the line of duty succumbing to over-exertion resulting in a heart attack on October 18, 1967 as he was engaged in rescue and emergency relief efforts in the aftermath of Hurricane Beulah. “Doc” Holliday had been working for three long days rendering assistance and performing arduous tasks with little rest.
- From - HONOR FIRST: The Story of the United States Border Patrol - Volume II by Joseph Banco

1968

Ralph L. Anderson
Date of Birth: February 16, 1923
Entered on Duty: May 1, 1950
Title: Patrol Inspector
End of Watch: October 25, 1968

Details:
On October 25, 1968, Patrol Inspector Ralph L. Anderson was assigned to the 8:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. shift on the international boundary near San Ysidro, California. He was working alone, checking the drag trails for signs of illegal crossings.

Shortly after 4:00 p.m., Patrol Inspector Charles Thompson found Patrol Inspector Anderson in a Service-owned vehicle in a remote area near the Mexican border east of the San Ysidro Port of Entry. There was a bullet wound in Inspector Anderson's right temple and a 218 “Bee” Savage bolt-action rifle inside the vehicle, with the muzzle pointing upward and leaning toward the decedent.

Investigation conducted by the FBI revealed that the rifle was carried loosely inside the vehicle with the muzzle upward. A mark on a gearshift lever knob indicated that the trigger of the weapon had fallen against the knob. The impact discharged the rifle, and the projectile struck Inspector Anderson in the right temporal region. There was no indication of any other person or persons having been in the area. San Diego County Deputy Coroner Murphy concluded the mode of death to be accidental.

Gravesite

James G. Burns
Date of Birth: July 31, 1924
Entered on Duty: June 8, 1955
Title: Senior Patrol Inspector
End of Watch: December 8, 1968

Details:
Official reports covering the death of Senior Patrol Inspector James G. Burns indicated he was performing line watch operations, looking for evidence of illegal aliens in a river bottom near Calexico, California, on Sunday, December 8, 1968. He was searching places of concealment in heavy undergrowth, which was exceptionally strenuous activity and required considerable physical exertion. At 6:30 a.m., he began to suffer pains in the chest area, which prompted him to immediately return to the office. He was taken home by another officer and was then conveyed to the El Centro Community Hospital by his wife. He passed away at 8:25 a.m., less than two hours after being stricken. Death was caused by an occlusion of the left coronary artery due to arteriosclerosis.

Gravesite

1969

Henley M. Goode, Jr.
Date of Birth: April 7, 1929
Entered on Duty: August 24, 1953
Title: Patrol Inspector
End of Watch: October 11, 1969

Details:
During the morning of September 6, 1969, Patrol Inspector Henley M. Goode, Jr. was injured when he fell on the steps of the U.S. Post Office Building, Fort Fairfield, Maine. He had just departed the Border Patrol Office on the second floor of the building and as he neared the lobby level, he tripped and fell a short distance to the lobby floor. There were no witnesses to the accident, but several postal employees heard the sound of someone falling and a voice calling for help.

They responded immediately, and obtained a doctor and an ambulance. Examination revealed Patrol Inspector Goode had sustained a fractured left kneecap (Patella). He died unexpectedly on October 11, 1969, at the Fort Fairfield Community Hospital. His death was attributed to pulmonary embolus.

Gravesite

1973

Friedrich Karl
Date of Birth: July 15, 1923
Entered on Duty: May 2, 1955
Title: Airplane Pilot
End of Watch: October 4, 1973

Details:
Both Airplane Pilot Friedrich Karl and his observer, Senior Patrol Agent John S. Blue, were stationed at Yuma, Arizona, when they were killed in an airplane crash.

The officers were on a sign cutting and aircraft patrol assignment, having departed from the Yuma County Airport at approximately 6:00 a.m., on October 4, 1973. The flight also served to acquaint Senior Patrol Agent Blue with portions of the Yuma Sector since he had transferred there a short time before.  After some five hours of flight, the officers landed at the Stoker Company Airport at Tacna, Arizona, for a rest stop and to communicate with units from the Tacna Station relative to patrol plans and operations.

At approximately 12:00 noon, shortly after take-off from Tacna, the airplane struck a static line near the top of 52-foot poles of the Wellton Irrigation District power line. Contact of the landing gear with the static line caused the plane to flip, invert, and fall to the ground in an upside-down position.  Both of the officers were killed instantly upon impact.

Cremated

John S. Blue
Date of Birth: April 6, 1935
Entered on Duty: November 23, 1960
Title: Senior Patrol Agent
End of Watch: October 4, 1973

Details:
Senior Patrol Agent John S. Blue was stationed at Yuma, Arizona, where, while serving as an observer, he was killed in the crash of a Border Patrol airplane being flown by Airplane Pilot Friedrich Karl, also of Yuma.  The officers were on a sign cutting and aircraft patrol assignment, having departed from the Yuma County Airport at approximately 6:00 a.m., on October 4, 1973. The flight also served to acquaint Senior Patrol Agent Blue with portions of the Yuma Sector since he had transferred there a short time before.

After some five hours of flight, the officers landed at the Stoker Company Airport at Tacna, Arizona, for a rest stop and to communicate with units from the Tacna Station relative to patrol plans and operations.  At approximately 12:00 noon, shortly after take-off from Tacna, the airplane struck a static line near the top of 52-foot poles of the Wellton Irrigation District power line. Contact of the landing gear with the static line caused the plane to flip, invert, and fall to the ground in an upside-down position.  Both of the officers were killed instantly upon impact.

Burial Details Unknown

1974

Edwin C. Dennis
Date of Birth: March 3, 1912
Entered on Duty: April 17, 1941
Title: Senior Patrol Agent
End of Watch: February 4, 1974

Details:
At 7:10 p.m. on February 4, 1974, Senior Patrol Agent Edwin C. Dennis was in a van driven by Border Patrol Agent Richard Marroguin with one alien in custody. They were enroute from Ysleta to El Paso, Texas, on the border highway. They were traveling without lights when the vehicle struck some rocks that had been left by a construction crew. The vehicle turned over and Dennis was thrown out of the van and it rolled over him, crushing the upper part of his body. The other occupants in the vehicle were shaken up but not seriously injured.

Gravesite

Lee L. Bounds
Date of Birth: November 24, 1936
Entered on Duty: June 22, 1970
Title: Patrol Agent
End of Watch: March 29, 1974

Details:
Border Patrol Agent Lee L. Bounds of the Lordsburg Station, El Paso Sector, was killed in a jeep accident on March 29, 1974. He was traveling alone on a road between Animas and Rodeo, New Mexico, southwest of Lordsburg, and ran the jeep off the right shoulder of the road. He lost control when he attempted to steer the vehicle back onto the road and the jeep overturned. Bounds was thrown from the vehicle, which rolled over him before stopping in an upright position, Mr. Bounds’ head was crushed. The jeep, which was equipped with seat belts and roll bar, was damaged extensively.

Gravesite

Glenn A. Phillips
Date of Birth: July 25, 1948
Entered on Duty: April 30, 1973
Title: Patrol Agent
End of Watch: July 8, 1974

Details:
Border Patrol Agent Glenn A. Phillips of the Chula Vista Station, Chula Vista Sector, was killed in a jeep accident on July 8, 1974. He was traveling alone on the Tijuana Street Extension, a dirt road located near the international boundary approximately one mile west of the Port of Entry at San Ysidro. Agent Phillips was responding to a call for assistance from Patrol Agent Petraglia who had spotted a group of aliens entering the United States illegally.

The San Diego Police Department's report indicates that Agent Phillips was traveling at approximately 20 miles per hour, probably without lights, when his jeep crashed into the front end of a parked flatbed trailer. The jeep was badly damaged and the front of the trailer extended well into the interior and to the rear of the jeep. The bed of the trailer struck the right side of Agent Phillips' face, apparently killing him instantly.

Gravesite

Oscar T. Torres
Date of Birth: April 19, 1937
Entered on Duty: June 19, 1969
Title: Patrol Agent
End of Watch: November 30, 1974

Details:
Patrol Agent Oscar T. Torres was assigned the midnight to 8:00 a.m. shift on November 30, 1974, in the El Paso Station area. At approximately 2:30 a.m., he proceeded to the West Railroad Bridge to assist in opening the gates for a train inbound from Mexico.

Agent Torres and Patrol Agent (Trainee) Robert M. Worsham walked onto the bridge to open the gates while Worsham's partner, Patrol Agent Wayne Winn, Jr., remained with an apprehended alien in a Border Patrol vehicle at the end of the bridge. After opening the gates and while walking back toward the vehicle, Agent Torres stumbled and fell headfirst through an opening in the bridge to the river bottom, a distance of 25 feet. The fall was witnessed only by the alien, as Trainee Worsham and Agent Winn were not facing toward Torres when the accident took place.

The officers immediately went to the aid of Agent Torres, and an ambulance soon removed him to Providence Memorial Hospital. He expired at 4:55 a.m., the cause of death being listed as concussion.

Gravesite

1978

Jose P. Gamez, Jr.
Date of Birth: January 3, 1947
Entered on Duty: October 4, 1976
Title: Patrol Agent
End of Watch: April 21, 1978

Details:
Patrol Agent Jose P. Gamez, Jr. was working 4:00 p.m. to 12 midnight in the area of an isolated check gate on the Maverick County Irrigation Canal in the Quemado Valley, 25 miles north of Eagle Pass, Texas.

Patrol Agent Frank J. Lugo, with whom Gamez was working, reported him missing late on April 21, 1978. According to Agent Lugo, he had become separated from Gamez while they were attempting to apprehend four or five undocumented aliens.

Agent Gamez's body was recovered from the canal the next morning and it was presumed he had fallen into the canal and drowned. A few days later, the Bexar County Medical Examiner's report revealed Agent Gamez had been choked, probably with a board, and dragged to the canal by an unknown assailant or assailants. He was dead when he was thrown into the water.

Gravesite

1979

Weldon Smith
Date of Birth: July 18, 1939
Entered on Duty: November 2, 1970
Title: Aircraft Pilot
End of Watch: October 19, 1979

Details:
During the afternoon of October 19, 1979, Pilot Weldon Smith had been working with ground agents Roxy D. Kieffe and Frank Ureta, Jr., of Rio Grande City Border Patrol Station. They were trailing aliens on the Gallagor Ranch, about 10 miles north of Guerra, Jim Hogg County, Texas. Pilot Smith returned to McAllen to refuel. As he was returning to the location of the aliens, he passed about 100 feet over Kieffe, relocated the trail, and started relaying the location to Kieffe. He said, "I found the tr-" and quit transmitting in mid-sentence. Officer Kieffe did not see the crash, but saw the smoke and ran toward it. The plane was completely engulfed in flames, destroyed by the impact and fire. Pilot Smith died on initial impact. A Justice of the Peace from Hebbronville, Texas, held an inquest upon arrival at the scene of the accident and pronounced Pilot Smith dead. Subsequent investigation determined that the aircraft had stalled and the pilot was unable to recover from the stall.

Gravesite

1983

Victor C. Ochoa
Date of Birth: March 16, 1947
Entered on Duty: June 17, 1978
Title: Border Patrol Agent
End of Watch: March 11, 1983

Details:
On March 11, 1983, Victor E. Ochoa, a U.S. Border Patrol Agent stationed in the Tucson Sector, Casa Grande Station, was involved in a fatal traffic accident when the van in which he was transporting prisoners collided with a dump truck at the intersection of Ralston and Papago Roads about 22 miles southwest of Maricopa in Pinal County. The accident occurred at approximately 10:45 a.m. He was transported by helicopter to St. Joseph's Hospital in Phoenix, Arizona, where he died of multiple head injuries sustained in the accident.

Gravesite

Thomas K. Byrd
Date of Birth: September 12, 1954
Entered on Duty: August 19, 1983
Title: Border Patrol Agent (Trainee)
End of Watch: November 21, 1983

Details:
Border Patrol Agent (Trainee) Thomas K. Byrd was struck by an eastbound vehicle at about 5:00 p.m. on the afternoon of November 21, 1983, when the motorcycle on which he was a passenger, lost control. The owner and driver of the motorcycle, Border Patrol Agent (Trainee) James Hearne, was unable to see a vehicle making a left-hand turn as he and Agent Byrd left the Federal Law Enforcement Training Center to drop off a payment for class T-shirts that had been promised to the vendor by close of business on that date. Apparently, when Agents Hearne and Byrd left the training center, the sun was positioned in front of them in such a manner as to make visibility very difficult. When Agent Hearne realized that a vehicle in front of him was about to make a stop (or turn) it was too late to make a safe stop. Agent Hearne made a correction to the left side of the vehicle in an effort to avoid the collision, but lost control of the motorcycle in the attempt. The motorcycle fell to the ground throwing Agent Hearne into the path of the oncoming traffic. However, Agent Byrd was struck by a vehicle in the oncoming traffic and dragged for some distance. He was rushed to Brunswick Memorial Hospital by ambulance, where all efforts to save him failed. He was pronounced dead at approximately 7:00 p.m. by the attending physician. Both Agents Byrd and Hearne were attending the 151th Session of the U.S. Border Patrol Academy, Glynco, Georgia, when the accident occurred. Border Patrol Agent (Trainee) Byrd was a high academic achiever and was regarded with high esteem by the members of his class.

Gravesite

1985

Manuel Salcido, Jr.
Date of Birth: April 25, 1950
Entered on Duty: March 12, 1984
Title: Border Patrol Agent
End of Watch: January 2, 1985

Details:
On January 2, 1985, Agent Salcido was enroute to Del Rio Sector Headquarters and travelling in a seized 1975 Ford sedan. Agent Salcido's vehicle went out of control on an ice-glazed concrete bridge and was struck broadside on the driver's side by a southbound vehicle in the southbound lane. The other vehicle was a 1984 Suburban enroute to Eagle Pass, Texas. Agent Salcido was killed and the driver of the second vehicle was hospitalized with head and chest injuries. No other persons were involved in the accident.

Gravesite

Lester L. Haynie
Date of Birth: October 13, 1945
Entered on Duty: October 14, 1975
Title: Airplane Pilot Trainee
End of Watch: June 14, 1985

Details:
On the morning of June 14, 1985, Pilot Lester L. Haynie had been working with ground units 12 miles west of Yuma, Arizona. Having apprehended five aliens at Dunes Siding, Pilot Haynie radioed the ground units that he was flying to another siding. There were no witnesses to the crash that occurred at 7:51 a.m., reported at 8:18 a.m. by a Southern Pacific Railroad engineer. The Border Patrol plane was upside down under San Diego Power and Light cables in Imperial County, California, 100 yards north of the Southern Pacific Railroad tracks near Dunes Siding, two miles west of Sidewinder Road. Investigation determined that Pilot Haynie had failed to gain altitude to clear the power lines.

Gravesite

1986

Norman R. Salinas
Date of Birth: February 18, 1960
Entered on Duty: December 9, 1984
Title: Border Patrol Agent
End of Watch: August 4, 1986

Details:
Border Patrol Agent Norman Ray Salinas died on Monday, August 4, 1986, at approximately 1:20 a.m., when the government van he was driving went out of control on Interstate 35, south of Cotulla, Texas.

Agent Salinas was transporting Carlos Martinez Alvarenga, an illegal alien from El Salvador, to the Lasalle County Jail in Cotulla from Laredo. Lasalle County Sheriff Darwin Avant stated that Agent Salinas apparently failed to negotiate a curve. The van left the road running onto a median, rolling over several times before finally bursting into flames. Both Agent Salinas and Martinez Alvarenga were thrown from the van. They were dead before the first officers arrived on the scene.

Gravesite

1987

John R. McCravey
Date of Birth: September 10, 1950
Entered on Duty: September 9, 1985
Title: Border Patrol Agent
End of Watch: February 23, 1987

Details:
On February 20, 1987, Agent John R. McCravey was sign cutting near Highway 98, east of Calexico, California. He joined a vehicle pursuit that involved an automobile suspected of transporting a group of smuggled aliens. The driver of the fleeing vehicle turned south on a dirt road leading back to the All American Canal, which serves as a boundary between Mexico and the United States. The billowing dust cloud made by the fleeing vehicle prevented Agent McCravey from clearly seeing the road. The reduced visibility may have contributed by diminishing his perception and reaction time, which affected his ability to react to a change in roadway grade and a turn in the road. Agent McCravey lost control of his vehicle, which overturned and rolled into the All American Canal, where it became submerged upside down.

Fellow officers and farm workers successfully removed Agent McCravey and the three illegal aliens he had arrested prior to getting involved in the pursuit from the vehicle. He died three days later in a San Diego, California hospital.

Gravesite

1988

Josiah B. Mahar
Date of Birth: August 29, 1948
Entered on Duty: February 22, 1983
Title: Senior Patrol Agent
End of Watch: September 23, 1988

Details:
At about 3:15 p.m. on September 23, 1988, Senior Border Patrol Agent Josiah B. Mahar was involved in an automobile accident on Star Route #27 near Eustis, Maine. Agent Mahar was driving a Service vehicle and was patrolling in a southbound direction when an oncoming vehicle crossed over the centerline and struck his vehicle head-on as he rounded a bend in the road. The impact to Agent Mahar's vehicle was directed along the driver’s door and front fender area. Senior Patrol Agent Mahar died at the scene from massive head injuries sustained in the accident.

Burial Details Unknown

1989

David F. Roberson
Date of Birth: January 9, 1941
Entered on Duty: April 11, 1966
Title: Air Operation Supervisor
End of Watch: July 14, 1989

Details:
On July 14, 1989, Pilot David F. Roberson departed the Marine Corps Air Station, Yuma, Arizona, at 5:50 a.m., in Service aircraft N29162. Shortly after takeoff, he responded to a request for assistance in the Yuma freight yards where Border Patrol units were conducting freight train check operations. At 6:10 a.m., Pilot Roberson departed the freight yard area and proceeded south to County 23rd and Avenue 2E to assist ground units in working a trail of three aliens.

Upon arrival, Pilot Roberson commenced “sign cutting” while maintaining radio contact with Senior Patrol Agent David Ramirez and Patrol Agent Rosendo Guillen, who were working in the immediate area on the trail. At 6:24 a.m., Pilot Roberson stalled the aircraft and crashed. The aircraft was destroyed by the impact and post-crash fire. Pilot Roberson died instantly.

Gravesite

Keith Connelly
Date of Birth: December 11, 1946
Entered on Duty: June 21, 1971
Title: Special Agent (Anti-Smuggling)
End of Watch: September 6, 1989

Details:
On September 6, 1989, at 1:45 a.m., Anti-Smuggling Agent Keith Connelly was shot by alien smugglers in the city of Fresno, California, where he died shortly thereafter. He was working an undercover operation accompanied by his partner, Ted Jordan, who was also shot but survived the ordeal. The Fresno, California Police Department responded to the emergency assistance call and apprehended the suspects who were turned over to the FBI for prosecution.

Keith Connelly joined the U.S. Border Patrol in June 21, 1971, in Chula Vista, California, being assigned to the San Clemente Station. He then transferred to Rouses Point, New York, in September 1975, and worked along the Northern Border until reassigned to San Clemente in May 1978. In 1983, he was transferred to Fresno, California, where he became a Senior Border Patrol Agent in December 1986. In August 1988, he was promoted to Special Agent assigned to the Fresno Anti-Smuggling Unit where he served until the time of his death.

Burial Details Unknown

John D. Keenan
Date of Birth: February 11, 1953
Entered on Duty: November 16, 1987
Title: Border Patrol Agent
End of Watch: November 27, 1989

Details:
At about 3:50 a.m., on November 27, 1989, Border Patrol Agent John D. Keenan was involved in an automobile accident on U.S. Highway 83 at FM-492 near Mission, Texas. He was operating a Service vehicle and was driving east on U.S. Highway 83 when a northbound vehicle travelling at a high rate of speed on FM- 492 failed to yield the right-of-way, causing the accident. Patrol Agent Keenan died at the scene from multiple injuries sustained in the accident.

Gravesite

1990

Howard H. Gay - Unrecognized but Unforgotten
Date of Birth: April 17, 1945
Entered on Duty: February 8, 1980
Title: Border Patrol Pilot
End of Watch: October 3, 1990

Details:
On October 3, 1990, Border Patrol Pilot Howard H. Gay was driving to work amidst heavy fog when he noticed a stranded motorist on the highway. Attempting to turn around to offer assistance, he was tragically struck and killed by an oncoming vehicle.

Born on April 17, 1945, Howard attended Willingham High in Macon during the early 1960s and later pursued higher education at the University of Georgia. He joined the U.S. Border Patrol on February 8, 1980, and served as a pilot stationed in Alpine, Texas.

In honor of his selfless act, the Immigration and Naturalization Service posthumously awarded the Newton-Azrak Award to his widow, Linda. This award, named for two Border Patrol officers who lost their lives in the line of duty in 1967, reflects Howard’s willingness to help others in distress, even at the cost of his own safety.

Gravesite

1992

Louis D. Stahl
Date of Birth: August 19, 1942
Entered on Duty: October 9, 1973
Title: Border Patrol Pilot
End of Watch: June 13, 1992

Details:
On June 13, 1992, Pilot Louis Stahl was reportedly tracking a group of illegal aliens near the railroad tracks in a mountainous area near Sunland Park, New Mexico. According to witnesses, the Hughes OH6A helicopter, piloted by Agent Stahl, dropped down and snagged a string of power lines, which hung approximately 300 feet above the tracks. The contact with the power lines tilted his aircraft to the right and into another set of utility lines. The helicopter was then thrown downward and it nose-dived into a nearby canyon, slamming upside down on the desert floor in a valley north of Mount Cristo Rey.

The cockpit was demolished in the crash, and Agent Stahl was pinned underneath the wreckage. After seeing the crash, the subjects who were observed by the pilot, reportedly raced a half-mile east to go get help at the American Eagle Brick Company, where workers dialed 911. The workers then drove to the site and attempted to lift the smashed aircraft off the pilot. Shortly thereafter, firefighters, police, and Border Patrol Agents arrived at the scene to render aid. The downed pilot was pulled from the wreckage and was pronounced dead. His body was taken to Thomason General Hospital.

Gravesite

1995

Jose A. Nava
Date of Birth: July 6, 1958
Entered on Duty: January 27, 1987
Title: Border Patrol Agent
End of Watch: January 7, 1995

Details:
On January 6, 1995, Agent Jose A. Nava was on his way to conduct a train check. He was traveling on Farm Road 1572, 45 miles east of Del Rio, Texas. His Service vehicle struck a deer causing him to lose control. The vehicle overturned several times and Agent Nava was thrown from the vehicle. He was pronounced dead at the scene at 12:40 a.m. on January 7, 1995.

Jose Nava was born in Brownsville, Texas. He began his career with the Border Patrol in El Paso, Texas. On April 9, 1989, he transferred to the Del Rio Sector and was assigned to the Brackettville Station.

Gravesite

Luis A. Santiago
Date of Birth: November 9, 1964
Entered on Duty: June 6, 1994
Title: Border Patrol Agent (Trainee)
End of Watch: March 28, 1995

Details:
At approximately 11:45 p.m., Agent Santiago was working in a canyon near Lower Otay Reservoir when he and other agents saw a group of about 20 illegal aliens.  The agents identified themselves as Border Patrol and ordered the aliens to stop. The group scattered and the agents followed.  Agent Santiago gave chase along the rim of the canyon, taking a narrow trail that leads to the edge of a cliff. He lost his footing on loose rock and slippery grass and fell approximately 120 feet to his death.

On June 6, 1994, Luis Santiago joined the U.S. Border Patrol as a BPA (Trainee) at the San Diego Sector/Brown Field Station in San Diego, California. After entering on duty, he was sent to the Federal Law Enforcement Training Center in Glynco, Georgia. On October 18, 1994, he graduated from the 267th Session and returned to San Diego.  Agent Santiago was one week short of taking his ten-month examination.

Gravesite

Joe R. White
Date of Birth: November 19, 1954
Entered on Duty: July 5, 1988
Title: Border Patrol Agent
End of Watch: April 18, 1995

Details:
On April 18, 1995, Laredo North Border Patrol Agent Joe R. White passed away early in the morning after suffering an apparent heart attack while on duty at the IH-35 checkpoint. Agent White was transported to Doctors Hospital by ambulance, but was pronounced dead upon arrival.

Agent White was a 7-year veteran of the U.S. Border Patrol and a graduate of the 223rd Border Patrol Academy class. He was a canine handler assigned K-9 Brutus. Prior to Brutus, Agent White was the handler for Benno, who was one of the original K-9 assigned to the Laredo Sector.

During his 3 1/2 year tenure as a canine handler, Agent White made 155 narcotic seizures worth $8,836,512, seized $126,800 in U.S. currency, and located 1,701 undocumented aliens.

Burial Details Unknown

Xavier G. Magdaleno
Date of Birth: September 9, 1950
Entered on Duty: September 15, 1980
Title: Border Patrol Agent
End of Watch: May 10, 1995

Details:
On May 10, 1989, Border Patrol Agent Xavier G. Magdaleno and his partner were driving their vehicle alongside the railroad tracks in an area of the El Paso Sector known as the “slag pits.”

The agents were driving east between the slag piles and outbound tracks. A train was coming toward them on these tracks. Once clear of the slag piles, Agent Magdaleno tried to execute a 180-degree turn. The wheels of the vehicle began to slide in the soft slag. The vehicle would not respond to the steering wheel; instead, it plowed forward, alongside the incoming tracks. The agents did not see the incoming train because of the slag piles and the curve of the track until it was about 75 yards from the vehicle. Agent Magdaleno put the vehicle into reverse in an attempt to get out of the train’s way. However, the train struck the vehicle on the passenger side and threw the rear of the vehicle toward the track, striking it again.  On the initial impact, Agent Magdaleno’s partner was thrown out of the vehicle away from the train. The second impact threw Agent Magdaleno out of the vehicle, and it came to rest on top of him. He was pinned under the wreckage for 45 minutes. When freed, he was taken to R.E. Thomason General Hospital, where surgery was performed. He was paralyzed from the neck down, requiring ventilator assistance. He died from his injuries on May 10, 1995.  Agent Magdaleno was a graduate of the 139th session of the Border Patrol Academy and was assigned to the El Paso Station at the time of his death.

Gravesite

Lawrence B. Pierce
Date of Birth September 2, 1946
Entered on Duty: June 23, 1980
Title: Supervisory Border Patrol Agent
End of Watch: August 17, 1995

Details:
On August 17, 1995, while off-duty in Chula Vista, California, Supervisory Border   Patrol Agent Lawrence B. Pierce witnessed an altercation where an innocent man was stabbed to death. Agent Pierce chased down the killer, identified himself as a law enforcement officer, and while attempting to disarm the killer he suffered wounds that resulted in his tragic death. The killer was apprehended, convicted of murder, and was sentenced to 39 years to life in prison.

Agent Pierce entered on duty with the U.S. Border Patrol on June 23, 1980, as a member of the 137th session of the Border Patrol Academy, and was assigned to the Campo Station in the San Diego Sector.  Agent Pierce was a U.S. Marine Corps veteran and had served with the United States Border Patrol for over 15 years.

Gravesite

1996

Jefferson L. Barr
Date of Birth: November 16, 1962
Entered on Duty: January 19, 1988
Title: Senior Patrol Agent
End of Watch: January 19, 1996

Details:
On January 19, 1996, at approximately 10:30 p.m., Senior Patrol Agent Jefferson Barr and his partner, Border Patrol Agent Ned Thomas responded to electronic sensor activity at a location on the Rio Grande River 2 1/2 miles downriver from the Eagle Pass Port-of-Entry. The two agents took up positions on a trail leading away from the sensor activations to await possible alien foot traffic.

When Agents Barr and Thomas challenged four individuals carrying bundles of suspected narcotics, the subjects dropped their loads and three of them attempted to flee toward the river. Agent Thomas grappled with one of the three as the fourth subject, simultaneously, responded with gunfire at Agent Barr. The suspect expended all eight rounds from a .22 caliber revolver, striking Agent Barr once in the left shoulder area. The path of the projectile that struck Agent Barr was such that the wound was fatal instantly. Agent Barr fired all six rounds from his .357 magnum Service revolver during the gunfight, striking the suspect once. The suspect was able to walk to the river and cross back into Mexico. He was found shortly thereafter, suffering from his wounds, taken for medical treatment and subsequently taken into custody by Mexican authorities.

Gravesite\

Aurelio E. Valencia
Date of Birth: November 12, 1963
Entered on Duty: February 28, 1985
Title: Border Patrol Agent
End of Watch: January 25, 1996

Details:
On January 25, 1996, Border Patrol Agent Aurelio E. Valencia was involved in a vehicle accident on California State Route 78, near Glamis, California. Permanently assigned to the Blythe Station, Agent Valencia was working backup for the Highway 78 checkpoint. As he attempted a U-turn to get behind and investigate a suspected smuggling vehicle parked south of the checkpoint, his Service vehicle was struck broadside by a southbound motorist. Agent Valencia died at the scene from injuries sustained in the accident.

Agent Valencia began his career with INS as a student aide at Tucson Sector Headquarters. He was promoted to Clerk two months later. After a short break in service, he entered on duty as an Immigration Detention Officer at Wilcox Station, Tucson Sector, on November 26, 1986. On June 13, 1988, he entered on duty as a Border Patrol Agent at Blythe Station, Yuma Sector, the position he was filling at the time of his death.

Gravesite

Michael W. Barnes
Date of Birth: April 7, 1951
Entered on Duty: March 14, 1976
Title: Patrol Agent in Charge
End of Watch: December 12, 1996

Details:
On December 12, 1996, about 4:00 p.m., Border Patrol Agents were working on a trail on the Chittum Ranch in Carrizo Springs, Texas, assisted by a Del Rio Sector pilot. They spotted a group of about 13 illegal aliens, who ran when the agents approached them. Agents Barnes apprehended five of the aliens and turned them over to Agent Tapia. He began trying to apprehend the remainder of the group. The pilot spotted the group running along a creek bottom and was guiding agents toward the area. Agent Barnes was within about 50 yards of them when the pilot stated over the radio that Agent Barnes had gone down. He radioed Agent Barnes, but there was no response. When he notified the other agents in the area of the situation, they started making their way to assist him.

About 4:32 p.m., Agent Tapia found Agent Barnes face down. Agents determined that he was not breathing and had no pulse. They immediately started performing CPR. Pilot Snyder radioed for an ambulance and a helicopter. Agent Barnes was placed in an INS Bronco and transported to the ambulance. About 5:38 p.m., a helicopter took off with Agents Barnes and Guzman for a hospital in San Antonio, arriving at 6:13 p.m. At 6:25 p.m., a doctor advised Agent Barnes had died. The medical examiner’s office determined he had suffered a massive heart attack. Agent Barnes was born in San Antonio and grew up in Pearsall, Texas. He served as a Supervisor, Assistant Patrol Agent in Charge and Patrol Agent in Charge at the Carrizo Springs Station.

Gravesite

1997

Miguel J. Maldonado
Date of Birth: September 29, 1952
Entered on Duty: May 12, 1980
Title: Senior Patrol Agent
End of Watch: March 10, 1997

Details:
At approximately 11:24 a.m., Senior Patrol Agent Miguel Maldonado of the Port Isabel Station was performing sensor response patrol duties alone in a Service vehicle, traveling on Alton Gloor Road in Brownsville, Texas. An eyewitness stated that Agent Maldonado’s vehicle turned left across the centerline of the road, sliding across the roadway and into the ditch adjacent to the road. It then struck an earthen berm with its passenger side tires and rolled over one complete turn, landing on its wheels. At the time of the accident, Agent Maldonado was driving in an emergency response mode with his vehicle’s emergency lights and siren activated.

Supervisory Patrol Agent Herbert J. Monette of the Brownsville Station was notified of the accident and arrived at the scene soon afterward as EMS personnel were trying to save Agent Maldonado. They then decided to transport Agent Maldonado to Brownsville Medical Center, where emergency room personnel also tried to save him. But about 12:15 p.m., Agent Monette was informed that Agent Maldonado had died from wounds sustained in the accident. The likely cause of the accident was the wet condition of the roadway.

Agent Maldonado began his Border Patrol career with the Laredo Sector. He was reassigned in August 1988 as Senior Border Patrol Agent at the Port Isabel Station under the McAllen Sector, the position he held at the time of his death.

Gravesite

Stephen C. Starch
Date of Birth: January 3, 1972
Entered on Duty: November 13, 1995
Title: Border Patrol Agent
End of Watch: June 14, 1997

Details:
On June 14, 1997, Border Patrol Agent Stephen C. Starch and Senior Patrol Agent Aric Curtis were patrolling the border area south of State Route 94 in the Dulzura, California area. During the midafternoon hours, they found tracks of suspected illegal immigrants. Fully aware of terrain obstacles and even though their shift was almost over, Agents Starch and Curtis forged ahead, scaling the side of a mountain. Agent Starch separated from Agent Curtis to cover more territory.

During the next hour, Agent Curtis tried numerous times to contact Agent Starch by radio but was unsuccessful. He contacted Supervisory Border Patrol Agents and a ground and air search for Agent Starch was started. Agent Curtis discovered Agent Starch at the base of a cliff. He had sustained severe injuries and was not breathing. Agent Curtis and others administered CPR. A medical helicopter from Mercy Air arrived at the scene, along with a U.S. Coast Guard rescue helicopter. Because of the remoteness and the rough terrain, a higher medical authority could not arrive before dark. After nearly an hour of CPR, the attending Emergency Medical Technician consulted with the flight doctor from Mercy Air by radio and pronounced Agent Starch dead at the scene due to the severity of his injuries. The next day, investigators determined that Agent Starch had accidentally fallen about 150 feet to this death. Agent Starch was a graduate of Texas Tech University and the Border Patrol Academy, Class 295. At the time of his death, he was assigned to the San Diego Sector, El Cajon Station, sign cutting unit.

Gravesite

1998

Alexander Kirpnick
Date of Birth: September 9, 1970
Entered on Duty: September 25, 1996
Title: Border Patrol Agent
End of Watch: June 3, 1998

Details:
On June 3, 1998, Agent Alexander Kirpnick was assigned patrol duties at Ephraim and Mariposa Canyons in the Nogales area of the Tucson Sector during the midnight shift. He and his partner responded to sensor traffic. About an hour after setting up, they heard foot traffic approaching and spotted five individuals carrying what appeared to be illegal contraband. When the suspects came closer, the agents identified themselves as Border Patrol Agents and moved forward to contact the suspects.

Agent Kirpnick moved toward two suspects close to him and his partner moved toward three in his area. Agent Kirpnick’s partner heard him order the two suspects to sit down and soon after heard a gunshot. He then went to Agent Kirpnick’s position and found him prone with a wound in the head. Agent Kirpnick passed away at the University Medical Center in Tucson.

Agent Kirpnick, an immigrant from the Ukraine, was a graduate of the 322nd session of the U.S. Border Patrol Academy in Charleston, South Carolina.

Gravesite

Susan L. Rodriguez
Date of Birth: July 11, 1969
Entered on Duty: September 20, 1992
Title: Border Patrol Agent
End of Watch: July 7, 1998

Details:
On July 7, 1998, Border Patrol Agent Susan Lynn Rodriguez and several other agents responded to a call for assistance from the Cameron County Sheriff’s Department south of San Benito, Texas. The Sheriff’s deputies were pursuing a double homicide suspect. Agent Rodriguez was helping to set up a perimeter in an attempt to contain the fleeing suspect in a wooded area where he was believed to be hiding.

As Agents Rodriguez and Ricardo Salinas walked back to their vehicle, the suspect emerged from a cornfield and began firing on them and the other law enforcement officers on the scene. During the ensuing gun battle, Agents Rodriguez and Salinas were killed.

Agent Rodriguez was the first female agent in the history of the United States Border Patrol to lose her life in the line of duty. At the time of her death, she was assigned to the Harlingen Station of the McAllen Sector. She was a graduate of the 261st session of the U.S. Border Patrol Academy in Glynco, Georgia.

Gravesite

Ricardo G. Salinas
Date of Birth: April 29, 1974
Entered on Duty: September 8, 1997
Title: Border Patrol Agent
End of Watch: July 7, 1998

Details:
On July 7, 1998, Border Patrol Agent Ricardo G. Salinas and several other agents responded to a call for assistance from the Cameron County Sheriff’s Department south of San Benito, Texas. The Sheriff’s deputies were pursuing a double homicide suspect. Agent Salinas was helping to set up a perimeter in an attempt to confine the suspect to a wooded area where he was believed to be hiding.

As Agents Salinas and Susan Lynn Rodriguez walked back to their vehicle, the suspect emerged from a cornfield and began firing on them and other law enforcement officers at the scene. During the ensuing gun battle, Agents Salinas and Rodriguez were killed.

At the time of his death, Agent Salinas was assigned to the Harlingen Station of the McAllen Sector. He was a graduate of the 351st session of the U.S. Border Patrol Academy in Charleston, South Carolina.

Gravesite

Jesus de la Ossa
Date of Birth: June 21, 1965
Entered on Duty: November 28, 1993
Title: Senior Patrol Agent
End of Watch: October 20, 1998

Details:
On Tuesday, October 20, 1998, at 7:00 p.m., Agents Jesus De La Ossa and Thomas J. Williams were traveling to San Diego after successfully completing the Border Patrol Academy Instructor’s Course. They were involved in a head-on collision with another vehicle and lost their lives in the accident, which happened about 15 miles west of Artesia, New Mexico.

Agent De La Ossa was born in Nogales, Arizona. Before entering the Border Patrol, Agent De La Ossa served as a military policeman in the U.S. Air Force. He joined the INS as a Border Patrol Agent and was later promoted to Senior Patrol Agent. At the time of his death, his official station was Brown Field, California. He was a graduate of the 264th session of the U.S. Border Patrol Academy in Glynco, Georgia.

Gravesite

Thomas J. Williams
Date of Birth: July 21, 1966
Entered on Duty: May 5, 1994
Title: Senior Patrol Agent
End of Watch: October 20, 1998

Details:
On Tuesday, October 20, 1998, at 7:00 p.m., Agents Thomas J. Williams and Jesus De La Ossa were traveling to San Diego after successfully completing the Border Patrol Academy Instructor’s Course. They were involved in a head-on collision with another vehicle and lost their lives in the accident, which happened about 15 miles west of Artesia, New Mexico.

Agent Williams was born in Hazel Green, Wisconsin. He graduated from Western Illinois University Magna Cum Laude with a degree in criminal justice. He served in the Navy for four years, two of which were served on the submarine USS Henry Clay. He joined the INS as a Border Patrol Agent and was later promoted to Senior Patrol Agent. At the time of his death, his official station was Brown Field, California. He was a graduate of the 266th session of the U.S. Border Patrol Academy in Glynco, Georgia.

Gravesite

Walter S. Panchison
Date of Birth: January 15, 1945
Entered on Duty: March 6, 1978
Title: Airplane Pilot
End of Watch: October 23, 1998

Details:
On Friday October 23, 1998, at 2:00 p.m., Agent Scott Panchison was flying a U.S. Border Patrol plane in response to motion sensors tripped along the United States - Canadian Border near Lynden, Washington. Agent Panchison was working with other agents in the area and was heading back to Bellingham International Airport when his plane crashed into rugged terrain in the Smith Peak area just north of Mount Baker Highway on the west side of Sumas Mountain. Agent Panchison lost his life in the crash.

Agent Panchison was born in Pottsville, Pennsylvania, but grew up in Salt Lake City, Utah. He earned a bachelor’s degree from the University of Utah and a master’s degree from Pepperdine University. After graduation, Agent Panchison joined the U.S. Marine Corps, where he spent ten years flying F4 Phantoms, including flights from aircraft carriers in the Vietnam War. He left the Corps to join the U.S. Border Patrol, where he proudly served for 21 years. At the time of his death, he was stationed at the Blaine Sector. He was a graduate of the 119th session of the U.S. Border Patrol Academy in Glynco, Georgia.

Gravesite

1999

Rene B. Garza
Date of Birth: February 11, 1947
Entered on Duty: March 30, 1975
Title: Senior Patrol Agent
End of Watch: January 20, 1999

Details:
On January 20, 1999, Senior Patrol Agent Rene B. Garza was conducting surveillance on horseback in Skeleton Canyon, located in the “bootheel” of New Mexico, about 75 miles southwest of Lordsburg. He suffered cardiac arrest and was pronounced dead. According to other Border Patrol Agents, the severity of the illness and the geographical isolation were contributing factors in Agent Garza’s death.

Agent Garza was born in south Texas and was a graduate of the Border Patrol’s 107th Academy Class. He had spent his entire Border Patrol career at the Lordsburg Station.

Gravesite

Stephen M. Sullivan
Date of Birth: July 6, 1971
Entered on Duty: August 4, 1996
Title: Border Patrol Agent
End of Watch: March 27, 1999

Details:
On Saturday, March 27, 1999, Border Patrol Agent Stephen M. Sullivan was transporting a group of aliens on the Otay Truck Trail when his vehicle overturned and rolled down an embankment. Three of the aliens, who had been thrown from the vehicle, climbed up out of the embankment and approached another Border Patrol Agent, stating that others were still inside the vehicle and had been injured. Four people, including Agent Sullivan, were killed in the accident.

Agent Sullivan began his career with the INS as an Adjudications Officer in Los Angeles. He was hired by the Border Patrol in September 1997. At the time of his death, he was assigned to the El Cajon Station of the San Diego Sector.

Gravesite

John Charles Gigax - Unrecognized but Unforgotten
Date of Birth: June 1, 1972
Entered on Duty: March 17, 1997
Title: Border Patrol Agent
End of Watch: November 7, 1999

Details:
Border Patrol Agent John Gigax was killed in an automobile crash while he was travelling from a temporary assignment in Washington, DC.

Agent Gigax, who was stationed in Laredo, Texas, was driving on I-95, near Doswell, when his department Jeep Cherokee veered off the road and struck the rear of a car carrier parked on the shoulder in Hanover County, Virginia. The Jeep's momentum caused it go over the cab of truck, landing head-first on the pavement. The Jeep broke apart upon impact with the ground, killing Agent Gigax instantly.

Agent Gigax had served with the United States Border Patrol for three years. He was survived by his wife and parents.

Gravesite

2001

Daniel M. James, Jr.
Date of Birth: April 17, 1970
Entered on Duty: September 21, 1998
Title: Border Patrol Agent
End of Watch: March 2, 2001

Details:
On Monday, January 29, 2001, Border Patrol Agent Daniel M. James, Jr. and his partner were turning their Service vehicle around at the junction of Highways 716 and 429 to pursue three vehicles reported to be carrying illegal aliens. They hit a dip in the road, which caused the vehicle to overturn several times. Agent James was thrown from the vehicle and pinned against a fence. He was taken to Christus Spohn Memorial Hospital in Corpus Christi, Texas. He passed away on Friday, March 2, 2001, because of injuries sustained in the accident.

Agent James was a native of Canton, Ohio. He served in the U.S. Marines from March 1988 to June 1996. He was a graduate of the 389th session of the Border Patrol Academy in Glynco, Georgia. At the time of his death, his official station was Freer, Texas.

Cremated, Ashes scattered

Jason C. Panides
Date of Birth: December 27, 1974
Entered on Duty: March 9, 1998
Title: Border Patrol Agent
End of Watch: April 4, 2001

Details:
On Wednesday, April 4, 2001, at 12:36 a.m., Border Patrol Agent Jason C. Panides was killed after assisting in the apprehension of a group of illegal aliens on Interstate Highway 35, north of Laredo, Texas. Agent Panides was in the southbound lane of the east access road when he was struck by a southbound truck. He was killed instantly.

Agent Panides was a native of Jacksonville, Florida, and was a graduate of the University of Florida with a degree in criminal justice and psychology. He was a graduate of the 368th session of the Border Patrol Academy at Glynco, Georgia. At the time of his death, he was stationed at the Laredo North Border Patrol Station.

Gravesite

2002

Eloy Hernandez
Date of Birth: June 14, 1972
Entered on Duty: March 9, 1998
Title: Border Patrol Agent
End of Watch: January 17, 2002

Details:
On Thursday, January 17, 2002, at 12:08 a.m., Border Patrol Agent Eloy Hernandez was killed in an automobile accident while on patrol near Progesso, Texas. He was rounding a curve on a gravel road when his vehicle rolled over twice. A fellow Border Patrol Agent located the wreck. Agent Hernandez was airlifted to Valley Baptist Medical Center, Harlingen, Texas, where he was pronounced dead.

Agent Hernandez was a native of Mercedes, Texas. He was a graduate of the 367th session of the Border Patrol Academy at Glynco, Georgia, and was assigned to the Weslaco Station at the time of his death.

Gravesite

Roberto J. Duran
Date of Birth: March 29, 1968
Entered on Duty: January 4, 1998
Title: Border Patrol Agent
End of Watch: May 6, 2002

Details:
Border Patrol Agent Roberto Javier Duran was on detail from the Chula Vista Station to the Casa Grande Station when he was ejected from his vehicle in a vehicle rollover accident on Monday, May 6, 2002. He had worked the midnight shift and was returning to the station. Agents from the Casa Grande Station rendered emergency medical assistance and provided comfort to Agent Duran, but he died at the scene.

Agent Duran was born in Anthony, New Mexico. He served in the United States Navy from 1986 to 1997. He was a graduate of the 361st session of the U.S. Border Patrol Academy in Charleston, South Carolina.

Gravesite

Catherine M. Hill
Date of Birth: March 19, 1965
Entered on Duty: November 1, 1999
Title: Senior Patrol Agent
End of Watch: October 25, 2002

Details:
Senior Patrol Agent Catherine M. Hill, 37, was performing patrol duties in the Tijuana River Valley (Smuggler’s Canyon area) early in the morning on Friday, October 25, 2002, when her vehicle rolled down the edge of a 40-foot cliff. She died at the scene.

Agent Hill was a graduate of the 419th session of the U.S. Border Patrol Academy and was assigned to the Imperial Beach Station at the time of her death. Known for her outgoing and community-oriented personality, she was an advisor for Border Patrol Explorer post #1924 and a member of the San Diego Sector’s Peer Support Team.

Gravesite

2003

James P. Epling
Date of Birth: March 9, 1979
Entered on Duty: January 13, 2003
Title: Border Patrol Agent
End of Watch: December 16, 2003

Details:
On December 16, 2003, at approximately 7:00 p.m., Border Patrol Agent James P. Epling was reported missing after responding to sensor activity along the Colorado River near Andrade, California. Agent Epling had apprehended two Chinese illegal immigrants and had rescued another from drowning in the Colorado River. He was attempting to apprehend other illegal immigrants along the river when he suddenly disappeared.

A massive rescue operation by Border Patrol Search, Trauma, and Rescue teams, as well as multiple local, State, Federal, tribal, and foreign agencies, was immediately initiated. The response and coordinated rescue effort continued for three days. On December 19, 2003, at approximately 7:15 p.m., with the aid of an underwater camera, Agent Epling’s body was located 29 feet deep in the Colorado River. He was approximately 200 yards from where it was believed he initially disappeared. The investigation revealed that Agent Epling had died as a result of accidental drowning.

Agent Epling was 24 years old and was a graduate of the 537th session of the Border Patrol Academy. On January 28, 2004, his son, James Paul Epling II, was born.

Gravesite

2004

Travis W. Attaway
Date of Birth: May 3, 1973
Entered on Duty: December 1, 1997
Title: Border Patrol Agent
End of Watch: September 19, 2004

Details:
On September 19, 2004, at approximately 2:45 p.m., Border Patrol Agent Travis W. Attaway was part of a three-man team conducting marine Border Patrol Operations on the Rio Grande River near the Free Trade Bridge at Los Indios, Texas when their boat capsized. Agents Attaway, Wilson, and Sandoval were ejected from the boat into the fast moving waters of the Rio Grande. Agents in a nearby boat responded to the distress calls and were able to rescue Agent Sandoval, but they could not locate Agent Attaway or Agent Wilson. An intensive multi-agency search and rescue operation that included the Government of Mexico was initiated, and on September 21, 2004, at approximately 1:30 a.m., the body of Agent Attaway was recovered. At approximately 3:05 a.m., the body of Agent Jeremy Wilson was also recovered. Both agents were located within 150 yards of where their boat initially capsized.

Agent Attaway was 31 years old and was a graduate of the 359th session of the Border Patrol Academy.

Gravesite

Jeremy M. Wilson
Date of Birth: July 31, 1975
Entered on Duty: November 3, 1997
Title: Border Patrol Agent
End of Watch: September 19, 2004

Details:
On September 19, 2004, at approximately 2:45 p.m., Border Patrol Agent Jeremy M. Wilson was part of a three-man team conducting marine Border Patrol Operations on the Rio Grande River near the Free Trade Bridge at Los Indios, Texas when their boat capsized. Agents Wilson, Attaway, and Sandoval were ejected from the boat into the fast moving waters of the Rio Grande. Agents in a nearby boat responded to the distress calls and were able to rescue Agent Sandoval, but they could not locate Agent Wilson and Agent Attaway. An intensive multi-agency search and rescue operation that included the Government of Mexico was initiated, and on September 21, 2004, at approximately 1:30 a.m., the body of Agent Attaway was recovered. At approximately 3:05 a.m., the body of Agent Jeremy Wilson was recovered. Both agents were located within 150 yards of where their boat initially capsized.

Agent Wilson was 29 years old and was a graduate of the 356th session of the Border Patrol Academy.

Gravesite

George R. DeBates
Date of Birth: November 19, 1972
Entered on Duty: April 25, 1999
Title: Border Patrol Agent
End of Watch: December 19, 2004

Details:
On December 19, 2004, Agent George R. DeBates was involved in a single-vehicle accident while on patrol near Pisinimo, Arizona. He died as a result of his injuries.

Agent DeBates was working on a camp detail while assigned to the Casa Grande Station. Agent DeBates is the fourth Department of Homeland Security employee to die in the line of duty since the Department was created in March 2003.

Originally, from Wisconsin, Agent DeBates was a graduate of the 403rd session of the Border Patrol Academy. A four-year veteran of the Border Patrol, Agent DeBates was assigned to the Casa Grande Station, on detail to the Ajo Station.

Gravesite

2006

Nicholas D. Greenig
Date of Birth: February 20, 1978
Entered on Duty: December 1, 2002
Title: Border Patrol Agent
End of Watch: March 14, 2006

Details:
On March 14, 2006, Agent Nicholas Greenig was killed in a vehicle accident on the Tohono O'odham Nation in Pima County, Arizona, when the department vehicle he was riding in struck a bull walking across the highway. He and his partner were working a plainclothes detail when the accident occurred at approximately 8:00 pm.

Agent Greenig had served with the Border Patrol for three years and was assigned to Ajo Station in Tucson Sector. He was raised in Laurel, Montana, where he attended public schools before he transferred to a private high school in Billings. He graduated with honors from Utah Valley State College in Provo and joined the Border Patrol in 2002. Agent Greenig was a graduate of the 535th session of the Border Patrol Academy. He was a senior patrol agent and a member of a special unit that targeted violent criminal organizations, which smuggled people and drugs.

Gravesite

David N. Webb
Date of Birth: November 24, 1970
Entered on Duty: February 23, 2004
Title: Border Patrol Agent
End of Watch: November 3, 2006

Details:
On November 3, 2006, Border Patrol Agent David N. Webb was enroute to his normal patrol duties on the Tohono O’odham Nation within the Ajo Station Area of Responsibility. At approximately 5:18 p.m., Agent Webb was involved in a single vehicle accident. Border Patrol Agents working nearby responded to assist Police and emergency medical services personnel at the scene of the accident. Agent Webb did not survive the injuries sustained from the accident.

Agent Webb was 36 years old and was a graduate of the 580th session of the Border Patrol Academy. He served his country as a member of the 186th Infantry in the Oregon Army National Guard, where he saw service in the Sinai Desert as a member of a United Nations Peace Keeping Force from May 2002 to February 2003.

Burial Details Unknown

2007

Ramon Nevarez, Jr.
Date of Birth: March 27, 1983
Entered on Duty: August 15, 2005
Title: Border Patrol Agent
End of Watch: March 15, 2007

Details:
On March 15, 2007, Agents Ramon Nevarez and David Tourscher were involved in a single vehicle accident on NM Highway 338 near Cotton City, New Mexico.  At approximately 9:00 p.m., Agent Nevarez succumbed to his injuries at the scene.

Agent Tourscher was flown to a hospital in El Paso, Texas, where he died. Agent Nevarez had served with the Border Patrol for two years.

Burial Details Unknown

David J. Tourscher
Date of Birth: November 22, 1982
Entered on Duty: June 26, 2006
Title: Border Patrol Agent (trainee)
End of Watch: March 16, 2007

Details:
On March 15, 2007, Agents David Tourscher and Ramon Nevarez were involved in a single vehicle accident on NM Highway 338 near Cotton City, New Mexico.

Agent Nevarez succumbed to his injuries at the scene. Agent Tourscher was flown to a hospital in El Paso, Texas, where he died early the following morning.  Agent Tourscher had served with the Border Patrol for nine months.

Burial Details Unknown

Richard M. Goldstein
Date of Birth: September 10, 1969
Entered on Duty: March 25, 2002
Title: Border Patrol Agent
End of Watch: May 11, 2007

Details:
On May 11, 2007, Agent Richard M. Goldstein drowned in the Coachella Canal near Niland, California, east of the Salton Sea.  After he went missing, Agent Goldstein’s canine partner was found sitting alongside his vehicle, which was parked and idling near the canal. The Customs and Border Protection and California Highway Patrol Air divisions assisted several Border Patrol Agents in the search for the missing agent. A short time later, he was found drowned a few miles from his vehicle.

Agent Goldstein’s K-9 partner, Carlo, was wet, and markings in the area indicated the dog had been in the water and struggled to get out of the canal. Early reports indicated that Agent Goldstein entered the canal in order to rescue his K-9 partner.

Agent Goldstein was a five-year veteran of the Border Patrol and was assigned to the El Centro Sector’s Indio Station.

Gravesite

Eric N. Cabral
Date of Birth: June 27, 1976
Entered on Duty: September 25, 2005
Title: Border Patrol Agent
End of Watch: July 26, 2007

Details:
On July 26, 2007, Border Patrol Agent Eric Cabral suffered a fatal heart attack as the result of heat exposure when he and another agent were tracking a group of illegal aliens north of I-8 near Jacumba, California. He had been separated from his partner when a third agent found him.

Agents initiated CPR and emergency medical services were rendered. Agent Cabral was flown to a hospital in San Diego, where he was pronounced dead.  Agent Cabral had served with the Border Patrol for less than two years.

Gravesite

2008

Luis A. Aguilar
Date of Birth: November 26, 1976
Entered on Duty: July 21, 2002
Title: Border Patrol Agent
End of Watch: January 19, 2008

Details:
Border Patrol Agent Luis A. Aguilar was killed in the line of duty on Saturday, January 19, 2008, after a suspected smuggler intentionally ran him over, while he was deploying a controlled tire deflation device in an attempt to stop the vehicle from escaping into Mexico.

Agent Aguilar was working with a plain-clothes unit (IMPACT) near the Imperial Sand Dunes Recreation Area, when he and his unit were notified of attempted drive- through vehicles. The IMPACT Unit stationed several agents in an attempt to intercept the vehicles as they made their way northbound. Agent Aguilar and another agent positioned themselves on the access road to deploy a controlled tire deflation device (CTDD). As the agents were stretching the   CTDD across the roadway, the driver of the vehicle accelerated, driving directly toward the agents. One agent climbed the highway fence to the north, and was able to escape being struck by the vehicle. The driver of the vehicle immediately swerved to the left, directly at Agent Aguilar. At approximately 9:30 AM, the vehicle struck Agent Aguilar, continued across the campground and escaped into Mexico. Border Patrol Agent Luis A. Aguilar was pronounced dead about 20 minutes later.

The driver of the vehicle, Jesus Navarro-Montes, was convicted and sentenced to life in prison.

Gravesite

Jarod C. Dittman
Date of Birth: September 9, 1979
Entered on Duty: March 5, 2007
Title: Border Patrol Agent
End of Watch: March 30, 2008

Details:
Border Patrol Agent Jarod C. Dittman was killed in a single-vehicle accident near Jamul, California in the early morning hours of March 30, 2008.

Agent Dittman was driving from the Brown Field Border Patrol Station to his assigned patrol area, when his service vehicle rolled over, ejecting Agent Dittman from the vehicle. Another Border Patrol agent drove up on the scene and immediately called for emergency assistance. Due to the heavy fog, an airlift helicopter could not respond. Agent Dittman was pronounced dead while enroute to the hospital.

Agent Dittman entered on duty with the U.S. Border Patrol on March 5, 2007, as a member of the 660th session of the Border Patrol Academy.  He was assigned to the Brown Field Station immediately after graduation from the Academy. Prior to joining the Border Patrol, Agent Dittman served in the Pennsylvania National Guard.

Gravesite

2009

Nathaniel A. Afolayan
Date of Birth: March 26, 1980
Entered on Duty: February 16, 2009
Title: Border Patrol Agent (Trainee)
End of Watch: May 1, 2009

Details:
On April 30, 2009, newly hired Agent Nathaniel A. Afolayan collapsed during a physical training exam. Agent Afolayan had just completed the 1.5-mile run portion of his physical techniques final exam. After his collapse, he was transported via ambulance to Artesia General Hospital. Later that day, his condition worsened and he was taken via life-flight to Covenant Medical Center in Lubbock, Texas. Agent Afolayan died May 1, 2009. An autopsy concluded his death was accidental due to heat illness.

Agent Afolayan was a native of Nigeria. He was a member of the 856th Session of the Border Patrol Academy and was to be assigned to the Newton-Azrak Station in the San Diego Sector.

Gravesite

Cruz C. McGuire
Date of Birth: January 19, 1962
Entered on Duty: September 30, 1984
Title: Border Patrol Agent
End of Watch: May 21, 2009

Details:
Border Patrol Agent Cruz McGuire, of the Del Rio Texas Station, collapsed the morning of May 21, 2009. Attempts by his fellow agents and medical professionals to revive him were unsuccessful. At the time of his collapse, Agent McGuire was working a trail with other agents.

Agent McGuire began his career in law enforcement with the Del Rio Police Department and later joined the Kinney County Sheriff’s Office. Agent McGuire graduated with the 166th Session of the Border Patrol Academy and was assigned to the Kingsville Station. Agent McGuire transferred to the Del Rio Station on April 12, 1998.

Gravesite

Robert W. Rosas, Jr.
Date of Birth: June 19, 1979
Entered on Duty: May 22, 2006
Title: Border Patrol Agent
End of Watch: July 23, 2009

Details:
On July 23, 2009, Agent Rosas was shot and killed near Campo, California, after responding to suspicious activity in an area notorious for alien and drug smuggling. Agent Rosas exited his vehicle approximately 18 miles east of the Tecate Port of Entry, near the Shockey Truck Trail, a short distance from the border. Agents working nearby heard gunshots and tried to contact Agent Rosas. When he did not respond, his fellow Agents rushed to the area to locate him, and found his body on the ground near his vehicle.

On November 20, 2009, a 17-year old Mexican National was convicted of murder of a federal officer committed in perpetration of a robbery and aiding and abetting a felony after entering a guilty plea in connect with Agent Rosas’ murder. According to the plea agreement, the convicted felon and co-conspirators illegally entered into the United States and lured Agent Rosas out of his vehicle for the purpose of robbing him. During the course of the robbery, Agent Rosas and the defendant struggled over a firearm and the defendant and one or more of the co-conspirators shot Agent Rosas multiple times. Agent Rosas died as a result of his wounds.

Agent Rosas graduated with the 621st session of the Border Patrol Academy and was assigned to the Campo Border Patrol Station in the San Diego Sector.

Gravesite

Trena R. McLaughlin
Date of Birth: April 3, 1950
Entered on Duty: October 14, 1984
Title: Supervisory Border Patrol Agent
End of Watch: September 14, 2009

Details:
On July 14, 1994, Border Patrol Agent Trena McLaughlin was stuck with a syringe while searching a vehicle in Temecula, California. As a result of this incident, Agent McLaughlin tested positive for Hepatitis C in 1998.

After medically retiring from the Border Patrol in 2002, Supervisory Border Patrol Agent Trena McLaughlin died of liver failure on September 14, 2009.

Agent McLaughlin served with the United States Border Patrol for 18 years and was a member of the 167th session of the Border Patrol Academy assigned to the Temecula Station later renamed the Newton-Azrak Station in the San Diego Sector.

Burial Details Unknown

2010

Mark F. Van Doren
Date of Birth: July 18, 1969
Entered on Duty: January 19, 2009
Title: Border Patrol Agent
End of Watch: May 24, 2010

Details:
On May 23, 2010, Border Patrol Agent Mark F. Van Doren was in a vehicle accident while on patrol when his vehicle collided with a large bull on rural Farm-to-Market Road 755 in Brooks County, Texas. After the impact, his vehicle veered off the road- way and hit a tree. Agent Van Doren died on May 24, 2010 as a result of his injuries. His partner was critically injured in the crash, but survived.

Agent Van Doren was a native of Garden City, Michigan. He was a member of the 849th Session of the Border Patrol Academy assigned to the Falfurrias Border Patrol Station within the Rio Grande Sector.

Cremated

2010

Michael V. Gallagher
Date of Birth: July 5, 1978
Entered on Duty: July 21, 2008
Title: Border Patrol Agent
End of Watch: September 2, 2010

Details:
On September 2, 2010, Agent Michael V. Gallagher was killed after being struck by a drunk driver on Federal Route 19 on the Tohono O’Odham Nation, near Casa Grande, Arizona. The collision caused Agent Gallagher’s vehicle to overturn multiple times; due to the impact, his body was ejected from the vehicle. The drunk driver was charged with negligent homicide, but pleaded guilty to involuntary manslaughter in a plea agreement.

Agent Gallagher was a native of Lancaster, Pennsylvania. He was a member of the 794th Session of the Border Patrol Academy assigned to the Casa Grande Border Patrol Station within the Tucson Sector.

Agent Gallagher is survived by his wife, two sons, mother, father, stepmother, step- father, and two sisters.

Gravesite

Brian A. Terry
Date of Birth August 11, 1970
Entered on Duty: July 23, 2007
Title: Border Patrol Agent
End of Watch: December 15, 2010

Details:
On December 14, 2010, Agent Brian A. Terry was shot while conducting a Border Patrol Tactical Unit (BORTAC) operation in the area of ‘Peck Wells’. This area is near Rio Rico, Arizona and about 15 miles north of Nogales, Arizona. At 11:15pm, Agent Terry and his team spotted a group of individuals approaching their position. An encounter ensued and gunfire was exchanged. Agent Terry succumbed to his injuries on December 15, 2010.

Agent Terry was a native of Flat Rock, Michigan. He served our country proudly with the United States Marine Corps and continued his service as a Police Officer with the cities of Ecorse and Lincoln Park prior to joining the United States Border Patrol. Agent Terry was a member of the 699th Session of the Border Patrol Academy assigned to the Naco Border Patrol Station within the Tucson Sector.

Agent Terry is survived by his mother, father, stepmother, stepfather, brother and two sisters. The Naco Border Patrol Station was later renamed in his honor.

Gravesite

2011

Hector R. Clark
Date of Birth November 16, 1971
Entered on Duty: August 20, 2001
Title: Border Patrol Agent
End of Watch: May 12, 2011

Details:
On the morning of May 12, 2011, Border Patrol Agent Hector R. Clark, and his partner Lead Border Patrol Agent Eduardo Rojas, Jr., were killed when a freight train struck their government vehicle. The accident occurred near the intersection of Interstate 8 and Paloma Road, approximately nine miles west of Gila Bend, Arizona. Agents Clark and Rojas were assisting other agents in pursuit of a group of suspected illegal aliens at the time of the accident.

Agent Clark, a native of the Yuma, Arizona community, began his career with the U.S. Border Patrol on August 20, 2001, as a member of the 481st Session of the Border Patrol Academy. Following his graduation, he was assigned to the El Centro Station in the El Centro Sector. At the time of his death, he was assigned to the Yuma Station in the Yuma Sector. Agent Clark was 39 years old and is survived by his wife and two children.

Gravesite

Eduardo Rojas, Jr.
Date of Birth October 14, 1976
Entered on Duty: April 9, 2000
Title: Lead Border Patrol Agent
End of Watch: May 12, 2011

Details:
On the morning of May 12, 2011, Lead Border Patrol Agent Eduardo Rojas, Jr., and his partner Border Patrol Agent Hector R. Clark, were killed when a freight train struck their government vehicle. The accident occurred near the intersection of Interstate 8 and Paloma Road, approximately nine miles west of Gila Bend, Arizona. Agents Rojas and Clark were assisting other agents in pursuit of a group of suspected illegal aliens at the time of the accident.

Agent Rojas entered on duty with the U.S. Border Patrol on April 9, 2000, as a member of the 432nd Session of the Border Patrol Academy. Upon graduating from the academy, he was assigned to the Yuma Station in the Yuma Sector. Agent Rojas was serving as a Lead Border Patrol Agent in the Yuma Sector at the time of his death. He was a native of El Paso, Texas, and a graduate of Irvin High School. Agent Rojas was 34 years old, and is survived by his wife and two children.

Gravesite

2012

Leopoldo Cavazos, Jr.
Date of Birth May 12, 1983
Entered on Duty: May 22, 2006
Title: Border Patrol Agent
End of Watch: July 6, 2012

Details:
On July 6, 2012, Border Patrol Agent Leopoldo Cavazos Jr., a six-year veteran posted at the Fort Hancock Station, died from injuries sustained in an on-duty, all-terrain vehicle accident near the Fort Hancock Port of Entry.  Agent Cavazos is survived by his wife, two daughters and a third child expected later this summer.

Agent Cavazos entered on duty with the U.S. Border Patrol on May 22, 2006, as a member of the 621st Session of the Border Patrol Academy. After graduating from the Academy, he was assigned to the Fort Hancock Station in the El Paso Sector.

Gravesite

James R. Dominguez
Date of Birth April 5, 1971
Entered on Duty: May 7, 2000
Title: Border Patrol Agent
End of Watch: July 19, 2012

Details:
On July 19, 2012, Border Patrol Agent James R. Dominguez succumbed to injuries received when he was struck by a passing vehicle along Highway 90 near Cline, Texas.  At the time of the accident, Agent Dominguez was on duty.

Agent Dominguez, age 41, entered on duty with the U.S. Border Patrol on May 7, 2000, as a member of the 434th session of the Border Patrol Academy. Upon graduating from the Academy, he was assigned to the Uvalde Station in the Del Rio Sector.

Agent Dominguez is survived by his wife and four children.

Gravesite

Jeffrey Ramirez
Date of Birth February 6, 1987
Entered on Duty: September 1, 2008
Title: Border Patrol Agent
End of Watch: September 15, 2012

Details:
On September 15, 2012, Border Patrol Agent Jeffrey Ramirez, died at the age of 25. Agent Ramirez had been hospitalized in Laredo, Texas since the onset of a heat-related illness on August 22, 2012.

Agent Ramirez entered on duty with the U.S. Border Patrol on September 1, 2008, as a member of Border Patrol Academy Class 810. Following graduation from the Academy, he was assigned to the Hebbronville Station in the Laredo Sector.

Agent Ramirez is survived by his parents, sister, two brothers, son and a girlfriend. His brother is a Border Patrol Agent at the Freer Station.

Gravesite

Nicholas J. Ivie
Date of Birth October 13, 1981
Entered on Duty: January 3, 2008
Title: Border Patrol Agent
End of Watch: October 2, 2012

Details:
On October 2, 2012, Border Patrol Agent Nicholas J. Ivie, of the Brian A. Terry Border Patrol Station was mortally wounded in the line of duty. Agent Ivie and separate group of two Border Patrol Agents were responding to a sensor activation in a remote area near Bisbee, Arizona. Agent Ivie and one of the other Border Patrol Agents mistook the other in the darkness as an armed threat. They engaged each other, unknowingly in a friendly versus friendly gunfight. Both agents were injured by gunfire, with Agent Ivie suffering a fatal wound.

Agent Ivie entered on duty as a member of the 733rd academy session on January 3, 2008.  Agent Ivie was 30 years old at the time of his death and leaves behind a wife, two daughters, his parents and four siblings.

Gravesite

David R. Delaney
Date of Birth September 5, 1968
Entered on Duty: December 12, 2002
Title: Border Patrol Agent
End of Watch: November 2, 2012

Details:
On November 2, 2012, Border Patrol Agent David R. Delaney collapsed and died while patrolling on foot near Big Bend National Park in Texas.

Agent Delaney entered on duty as a member of the 536th academy session on December 12, 2002. Following his graduation, he was assigned to the Calexico Station in the El Centro Sector. He then transferred to Houlton and Grand Forks Sectors before settling in at the Big Bend National Park Sub-Station of Alpine Station in the Big Bend Sector in 2011.

Agent Delaney is survived by his wife and three children.

Gravesite

2014

Alexander I. Giannini
Date of Birth October 14, 1989
Entered on Duty: October 16, 2008
Title: Border Patrol Agent
End of Watch: May 28, 2014

Details:
On May 28, 2014, Border Patrol Agent Alexander I. Giannini, of the Willcox Station, was involved in an on-duty, single-vehicle accident on Interstate 10 near Benson, Arizona. He died of injuries at the hospital shortly after the accident. Another agent in the vehicle was transported to the hospital with minor injuries.

Agent Giannini, 24, entered on duty with the U.S. Border Patrol on October 16, 2008, as a member of the 822nd session of the Border Patrol Academy. He served the Willcox Station loyally throughout his career.

Agent Giannini is survived by his mother, father, sister and fiancée.

Burial Details Unknown

Javier Vega, Jr.
Date of Birth June 17, 1978
Entered on Duty: February 11, 2008
Title: Border Patrol Agent
End of Watch: August 3, 2014

Details:
On Sunday, August 3, 2014, Border Patrol Agent Javier Vega, Jr. was shot and killed near Santa Monica, Texas, as he attempted to take a law enforcement action during a robbery while he was fishing with his wife, children, and parents. Two illegal aliens approached them and attempted to rob them. Agent Vega was shot in the chest when he attempted to draw his weapon. His father was also shot and wounded as he returned fire at the men.

Both men fled the scene, but were arrested a short time later. They were charged with capital murder, attempted capital murder, and other crimes. It is believed the same subjects had committed numerous similar robberies at the direction of a Mexican cartel. Both men had been previously deported numerous times.

On September 20, 2016, it was determined that, in light of information identified during the intensive investigation completed by the Willacy County Sheriff s Department, Agent Vega's actions were indicative of his law enforcement training and that he instinctively reacted, placing himself in harm's way to stop a criminal act and protect the lives of others. His death was re-determined to have been in the line of duty.

Agent Vega, who was 36 years old, entered on duty with the U.S. Border Patrol on February 11, 2008, as a member of Academy Class 745. Agent Vega was a U.S. Marine Corps veteran and had served with the United States Border Patrol for six years. He is survived by his wife, three children, parents and brother.

Gravesite

Tyler R. Robledo
Date of Birth May 1, 1980
Entered on Duty: September 8, 2011
Title: Border Patrol Agent
End of Watch: September 12, 2014

Details:
On September 12, 2014, Border Patrol Agent Tyler R. Robledo was involved in a two-vehicle accident near Carrizo Springs, Texas. Agent Robledo died of his injuries at the hospital shortly after the accident. The driver of the other vehicle also died. Agent Robledo was 34 years old at the time of his death and leaves behind his wife and two children.

Agent Robledo entered on duty with the U.S. Border Patrol on September 8, 2011, as a member of the 988th session of the Border Patrol Academy. He was stationed at the Carrizo Springs Station at the time of his death.

Gravesite

2016

Jose D. Barraza
Date of Birth April 13, 1987
Entered on Duty: August 8, 2008
Title: Border Patrol Agent
End of Watch: April 18, 2016

Details:
On April 18, 2016, Border Patrol Agent Canine Handler Jose D. Barraza was killed in the line of duty in a two-vehicle accident near Sierra Blanca, Texas.

Agent Barraza entered on duty on August 8, 2008, as a member of U.S. Border Patrol Academy Class 800. He was assigned to the Sierra Blanca Station.

Agent Barraza was 29 years old and is survived by his wife, two children and his mother.

Gravesite

Manuel A. Alvarez
Date of Birth October 12, 1978
Entered on Duty: July 13, 2003
Title: Border Patrol Agent
End of Watch: August 11, 2016

Details:
On August 11, 2016, Border Patrol Agent Manuel A. Alvarez was killed in the line of duty near Casa Grande, Arizona. Agent Alvarez was involved in a vehicle accident and died at the scene. He was 37 years old and assigned to the Casa Grande Station.

Agent Alvarez entered on duty July 13, 2003, as a member of U.S. Border Patrol Academy Class 557.

He is survived by his wife, four children, parents and two sisters.

Gravesite

David Gomez
Date of Birth November 7, 1972
Entered on Duty: February 12, 1996
Title: Border Patrol Agent
End of Watch: November 16, 2016

Details:
On November 15, 2016, Agent Gomez suffered a heart attack while on bicycle patrol duty near El Paso, Texas. He subsequently passed away at a local hospital on November 16, 2016.

Border Patrol Agent Gomez was assigned to the El Paso Station of the El Paso Sector. He entered on duty on February 12, 1996, as a member of Border Patrol Academy Class 299.

He is survived by his wife, three children and parents.

Gravesite

2017

Isaac Morales
Date of Birth October 15, 1986
Entered on Duty: February 18, 2008
Title: Border Patrol Agent
End of Watch: May 24, 2017

Details:
On May 20, 2017, while off-duty in El Paso, Texas, Border Patrol Agent Isaac Morales was confronted by an assailant with a knife. Agent Morales identified himself as a law enforcement officer, and while attempting to disarm the assailant, Agent Morales was stabbed multiple times. Agent Morales succumbed to his injuries four days later, passing away on May 24, 2017.  The killer was arrested and charged with murder.

Agent Morales entered on duty with the U.S. Border Patrol on February 18, 2008, as a member of the 749th session of the Border Patrol Academy, and was assigned to the Ysleta Station in the El Paso Sector.  Agent Morales served with the United States Border Patrol for over 9 years.

Gravesite

Rogelio Martinez
Date of Birth January 15, 1981
Entered on Duty: August 12, 2013
Title: Border Patrol Agent
End of Watch: November 19, 2017

Details:
On November 18, 2017, Border Patrol Agent Rogelio Martinez was patrolling along Interstate 10 in a remote area outside of Van Horn, Texas, when fellow agents were alerted that he and another agent were in distress.  When fellow agents located Agent Martinez, he was unresponsive and severely injured.  Agent Martinez was taken to the local hospital in Van Horn and later transported to a medical center in El Paso, Texas, where he succumbed to his injuries on November 19, 2017.

Agent Martinez entered on duty with the U.S. Border Patrol on August 12, 2013, as a member of the 1018th session of the Border Patrol Academy, and he was assigned to the Van Horn Station in the Big Bend Sector.  Agent Martinez served with the United States Border Patrol for over 4 years.

Gravesite

2019

Donna M. Doss
Date of Birth November 6, 1969
Entered on Duty: November 3, 2003
Title: Border Patrol Resident Agent
End of Watch: February 2, 2019

Details:
On February 2, 2019, Border Patrol Agent Donna M. Doss responded to a request for assistance from a Texas Department of Public Safety trooper regarding a suspected illegal alien.  After affecting the arrest of the subject at mile marker 276 on Interstate 20 near Tye, Texas, Agent Doss was struck by a passing vehicle.  She succumbed to her injuries at the scene.

Agent Doss entered on duty with the U.S. Border Patrol on November 3, 2003, graduated as a member of the 584th session of the Border Patrol Academy, and was subsequently assigned to the Brackettville Station in Del Rio Sector.  On March 6, 2017, Agent Doss transferred to Abilene, Texas, as a Resident Agent responsible for enforcement operations in eight Texas counties.  Agent Doss served with the U.S. Border Patrol for more than 15 years.

Cremated

Robert M. Hotten
Date of Birth: September 24, 1975
Entered on Duty: September 10, 2009
Title: Border Patrol Agent
End of Watch: October 6, 2019

Details:
On October 6, 2019, BPA Robert M. Hotten was investigating potential illegal cross-border activity in extremely rugged terrain near Patagonia, Arizona. After he failed to respond to radio calls, fellow agents responded to his last known location and found him unresponsive.  Agent Hotten was airlifted to a hospital in Nogales, Arizona where he was later pronounced deceased.

Agent Hotten entered on duty with the United States Border Patrol on September 10, 2009, as a member of the 910th session of the Border Patrol Academy.  He was assigned to the Sonoita Border Patrol Station in the Tucson Sector following his graduation.  Agent Hotten served with the United States Border Patrol for over 10 years.

Burial Details Unknown

Luis O. Peña Jr.
Date of Birth: July 16, 1977
Entered on Duty: January 27, 2003
Title: Border Patrol Agent
End of Watch: December 23, 2019

Details:
On December 23, 2019, Border Patrol Agent Luis O. Peña Jr. succumbed to complications related to significant injuries he received from a vehicle accident (roll over) on the Tohono O’odham Nation on October 18, 2007.  BPA Peña was medically retired on October 8, 2010.

Agent Peña entered on duty with the United States Border Patrol on January 27, 2003, as a member of the 538th session of the Border Patrol Academy.  He was assigned to the Casa Grande Border Patrol Station in the Tucson Sector following his graduation.  Agent Peña served with the United States Border Patrol for over seven years.

2020

Johan S. Mordan
Date of Birth: May 26, 1994
Entered on Duty: July 8, 2019
Title: Border Patrol Agent
End of Watch: June 12, 2020

Details:
On the night of June 11, 2020, Border Patrol Agent Mordan was patrolling on foot in a remote area in the boot heel of New Mexico in the El Paso Sector.  Agent Mordan’s partner lost radio contact with him.  The Agent located him a short time later and found him unresponsive and without a pulse.

His fellow agents worked to save his life for well over an hour before EMS arrived. Agent Mordan was sadly pronounced dead at the scene. There was no evidence to indicate foul play and his death appears to be the result of heat related illness.

Agent Mordan entered on duty on July 8, 2019 as part of the 1127th Session of the Border Patrol Academy. He is survived by his parents and sister.

Cremated

Enrique J. Rositas, Jr.
Date of Birth: June 3, 1967
Entered on Duty: September 8, 1997
Title: Border Patrol Agent
End of Watch: July 11, 2020

Details:
Border Patrol Agent Enrique Rositas Jr. passed away on July 11, 2020.  The circumstances of his passing were reviewed by an executive panel and the CBP Commissioner who determined that this death occurred in the line of duty.  Agent Rositas will be remembered for his diligent service to the nation and for his bravery in the face of danger.

BPA Rositas was assigned to the McAllen Station, Rio Grande Valley Sector, where he served as a primary field training officer, collateral duty safety officer, certified ATV rider, a member of the Horse Patrol Unit, and vice-president of the McAllen Station Morale, Welfare and Recreation Association. He began his career with the United States Border Patrol on September 8, 1997 after serving nearly 12 years in the United States Air Force attaining the rank of staff sergeant.

During his nearly 23-year career, BPA Rositas was known to many as "the very essence of what a USBP agent should be," and "was a loving husband and father who often spoke about his kids with such pride and joy."

BPA Rositas is survived by his wife and two children.

Gravesite

Agustin Aguilar, Jr.
Date of Birth: September 13, 1973
Entered on Duty: April 16, 2001
Title: Border Patrol Agent
End of Watch: July 25, 2020

Details:
Border Patrol Agent Agustin Aguilar Jr. passed away on July 25, 2020.  The circumstances of his passing were reviewed by an executive panel and the CBP Commissioner who agreed that this death occurred in the line of duty. Agent Aguilar will be remembered for his diligent service to the nation and for his bravery in the face of danger.

Agent Aguilar served as a canine instructor and handler assigned to the Eagle Pass South Station, Del Rio Sector, Texas. He started his CBP career on April 16, 2001 and served in Eagle Pass and Eagle Pass South for his entire career.

BPA Aguilar was from Lufkin, Texas, and was the eldest of 11 siblings. He was a scoutmaster for the Boy Scouts of America, and regularly coached Little League Baseball and football.  He is survived by his wife, three children, his mother and father and siblings.

Gravesite

Marco A. Gonzales
Date of Birth: October 19, 1970
Entered on Duty: November 14, 2005
Title: Border Patrol Agent
End of Watch: August 5, 2020

Details:
Border Patrol Agent Marco A. Gonzales passed away on August 5, 2020.  The circumstances of his passing were reviewed by an executive panel and the CBP Commissioner who agreed that this death occurred in the line of duty. Agent Gonzales will be remembered for his diligent service to the nation and for his bravery in the face of danger.

BPA Gonzales entered on duty on November 14, 2005, as part of the 606th Session of the Border Patrol Academy. He served as an agent at the Brackettville, Texas Station throughout his career. During his tenure, Agent Gonzales also served his fellow agents as a union representative.

Prior to becoming a Border Patrol agent, Agent Gonzales honorably served his country in the U.S. Marine Corps.  He is survived by his wife, Maria, three children and his parents.

Gravesite

2021

Alejandro Flores-Bañuelos
Date of Birth: November 4, 1985
Entered on Duty: March 5, 2009
Title: Border Patrol Agent
End of Watch: March 15, 2021

Details:
Border Patrol Agent Alejandro Flores-Bañuelos was struck by a vehicle and killed on March 15, 2021.  Agent Flores-Bañuelos had responded to reports of a crash on state Route 86, a four-lane divided highway north of Marina, California.  The traffic accident occurred during a dust storm that caused low visibility in the area.   Flores-Bañuelos was the first to arrive on the scene and began assisting a 75-year-old woman whose vehicle had become disabled in the roadway.  A second northbound vehicle struck Agent Flores-Bañuelos who was transported to Pioneers Memorial Hospital and later succumbed to his injuries.

BPA Flores-Bañuelos started his CBP career on March 5, 2009 and spent his entire Border Patrol career at the Indio, California Border Patrol Station in the El Centro Sector.  Prior to joining the Border Patrol, Agent Flores-Bañuelos honorably served his country in the U.S. Marine Corps.  He was born and raised in Richgrove, California and graduated from McFarland High School in McFarland, California.  He is survived by his wife, his three children and his mother.

Gravesite

Christopher Shane Simpkins
Date of Birth: September 23, 1972
Entered on Duty: July 6, 1997
Title: Border Patrol Agent
End of Watch: April 12, 2021

Details:
Border Patrol Agent Christopher Shane Simpkins passed away on April 12, 2021.  The circumstances of his passing were reviewed by an executive panel and the CBP Commissioner who agreed that this death occurred in the line of duty.  Agent Simpkins will be remembered for his diligent service to the nation and for his bravery in the face of danger.

Agent Simpkins entered on duty on July 6, 1997 at the Falfurrias Station, McAllen Sector, Texas, as part of the 342nd Session of the Border Patrol Academy.  At the time of his passing, he was assigned to the Lake Charles Station in the New Orleans Sector.

A native of Selma, Alabama and a graduate of the University of Alabama, Agent Simpkins also honorably served his country in the National Guard as a military police officer.  He is survived by his wife, daughter, parents and two brothers.

Gravesite

Freddie Vasquez
Date of Birth: June 28, 1977
Entered on Duty: June 16, 2002
Title: Border Patrol Agent
End of Watch: May 8, 2021

Details:
Agent Vasquez entered on duty on June 16, 2002, as part of the 515th Session of the Border Patrol Academy. The circumstances of his passing were reviewed by an executive panel and the CBP Commissioner who determined that this death occurred in the line of duty. At the time of his passing, he was assigned to the El Paso Station, El Paso Sector, Texas.  His line-of-duty death occurred on May 8, 2021.

He is survived by his wife: Inez; sons: Alexander, Christopher, and Abram; daughter: Samantha; parents: Jose and Maria Vasquez; and brothers: Jose and Frank Vasquez.

Gravesite

Juan M. Urrutia
Date of Birth: July 28, 1975
Entered on Duty: August 4, 2003
Title: Border Patrol Agent
End of Watch: May 28, 2021

Details:
Agent Urrutia entered on duty on August 4, 2003, as part of the 560th Session of the Border Patrol Academy. He was first assigned to the Falfurrias Station in what was then called the McAllen Sector in Texas. The circumstances of his passing were reviewed by an executive panel and the CBP Commissioner who determined that this death occurred in the line of duty. At the time of his passing, he was assigned to the Brownsville Station, Rio Grande Valley Sector, Texas. He was also a certified EMT/Paramedic.

He is survived by his wife: Shayla Lee Urrutia; Brothers: Martin J. Urrutia, Carlos Urrutia, David Urrutia: and his sisters; Juvita Urrutia and Maria Barron-Urrutia.

Gravesite

Daniel P. Cox
Entered on Duty: July 28, 1997
Title: Supervisory Border Patrol Agent
End of Watch: July 31, 2021

Details:
Supervisory Border Patrol Agent Cox and another driver were killed on July 31, 2021 in a head-on crash on State Route 86 near Sells, Arizona. Agent Cox and the other driver were pronounced dead about 12:20 a.m.

Agent Cox entered on duty on July 28, 1997 at the Eagle Pass Station in Del Rio Sector as part of the 346th Session of the Border Patrol Academy. At the time of his death, he was assigned to the BORSTAR unit in Tucson Sector as a Canine Handler and Canine Instructor.

Prior to becoming a Border Patrol Agent, Agent Cox served in the U.S. Army, receiving an Honorable Discharge in 1998.

He is survived by his daughters, Alexandria and Elizabeth: sister, Sonia: brother Gilbert: father Stacey: and half-brother, Lucas.

Cremated

Edgardo Acosta-Feliciano
Entered on Duty: July 3, 2006
Title: Border Patrol Agent
End of Watch: July 31, 2021

Details:
Agent Acosta-Feliciano died on July 31, 2021. The circumstances of his passing were reviewed by an executive panel and the CBP Commissioner who determined that this death occurred in the line of duty.

Agent Acosta-Feliciano entered on duty on July 31, 2021 as part of the 626th Session of the Border Patrol Academy. At the time of his death he was assigned to the Deming Station in the El Paso Sector.

Prior to becoming a Border Patrol Agent, Agent Acosta-Feliciano served in the U.S. Army Reserve Civil Affairs and completed a tour of duty in Afghanistan in 2004.

He is survived by his wife, Astrid; daughter, Veronica; sons, Adrian and Adner; father, Eduardo; sisters, Gloribel and Maribel; and brothers, Eduardo, Ricardo, and Reynaldo.

Gravesite

Ricardo Zarate
Entered on Duty: February 12, 2009
Title: Border Patrol Agent
End of Watch: August 16, 2021

Details:
Agent Zarate began his service on February 12, 2009, as a member of the 854th Session of the Border Patrol Academy. He later graduated with the 922nd Session of the Academy. At the time of his passing, he was assigned to the McAllen Station in the Rio Grande Valley Sector in Texas. The circumstances of his passing were reviewed by an executive panel and the CBP Commissioner who determined that this death occurred in the line of duty.

He is survived by his wife: Crystal; children: Payton and Ezekiel; parents : Benito and Diana; and brothers: Benito Jr., Isaac, and Rodolfo.

Gravesite

Chad E. McBroom
Entered on Duty: February 4, 1997
Title: Border Patrol Agent
End of Watch: August 29, 2021

Details:
Agent McBroom entered on duty on February 4, 1997, as part of the 329th Session of the Border Patrol Academy. At the time of his passing, he was assigned to the Tucson Sector Special Operations Detachment in Arizona. The circumstances of his passing were reviewed by an executive panel and the CBP Commissioner who determined that this death occurred in the line of duty. He is survived by his wife Magaly; children: Jackielynn, Kaya, and Reagan; and parents: Don and Sherry.

Obituary for publication

Luis "Louie" H. Dominguez
Entered on Duty: September 17, 2001
Title: Border Patrol Agent
End of Watch: September 23, 2021

Details:
Agent Dominguez entered on duty on September 23, 2001, as part of the 485th Session of the Border Patrol Academy. At the time of his passing, he was assigned to the Welton Station in Yuma Sector, Arizona. The circumstances of his passing were reviewed by an executive panel and the CBP Commissioner who determined that this death occurred in the line of duty. He is survived by his wife Brenda; children: Syrian, Nathan, Deserae, and Isaiah; siblings: Ana Nicolette, Desi, and Melissa; mother: Catalina; and father: Desiderio.

Gravesite

David B. Ramirez
Entered on Duty: April 6, 2003
Title: Border Patrol Agent-Intelligence
End of Watch: September 26, 2021

Details:
Agent Ramirez entered on duty on April 6, 2003, as part of the 546th Session of the Border Patrol Academy. At the time of his passing, he was assigned to the Sector Intelligence Unit/Joint California Forensics Center in San Diego, California. The circumstances of his passing were reviewed by an executive panel and the CBP Commissioner who determined that this death occurred in the line of duty. He is survived by his wife Rosemary; children: David, Cristian, and Castiel; and father: Modesto.

Cremated

Alfredo M. Ibarra
Entered on Duty: February 9, 2011
Title: Border Patrol Agent
End of Watch: September 27, 2021

Details:
Agent Ibarra entered on duty on February 9, 2011, as part of the 963th Session of the Border Patrol Academy. At the time of his passing, he was assigned to the Blythe Station, Yuma Sector, Arizona. The circumstances of his passing were reviewed by an executive panel and the CBP Commissioner who determined that this death occurred in the line of duty. He is survived by his wife Monica; children: Alfredo, Aydan, and Adrian; and mother: Evangelina.

Cremated

David H. Gray
Entered on Duty: March 21, 2016
Title: Enforcement Analysis Specialist
End of Watch: October 8, 2021

Details:
EAS Gray entered on duty on March 21, 2016. At the time of his passing, he was assigned to the Sector Intelligence Unit in Houlton Sector, Maine. Before joining the U.S. Border Patrol, EAS Grey honorably served his country for 20 years in the U.S. Navy. The circumstances of his passing were reviewed by an executive panel and the CBP Commissioner who determined that this death occurred in the line of duty. He is survived by his son, Harris; daughter, Marsilla; mother: Velva; and sister, Sandra.

Gravesite

Rafael G. Sanchez
Entered on Duty: September 16, 2002
Title: Supervisory Border Patrol Agent
End of Watch: October 24, 2021

Details:
Agent Sanchez entered on duty on September 16, 2002, as part of the 527th Session of the Border Patrol Academy. At the time of his passing, he was assigned to the Hebbronville Station, Laredo Sector, Texas. The circumstances of his passing were reviewed by an executive panel and the CBP Commissioner who determined that this death occurred in the line of duty. He is survived by his wife Anabel; children: Arielle, Maritza, and Rafael; and mother: Corina; sister Nora; and grandchildren: Joshua, Jordyn, and Gianna.

Cremated

Anibal A. Perez
Entered on Duty: June 26, 2006
Title: Supervisory Border Patrol Agent
End of Watch: November 5, 2021

Details:
Agent Perez entered on duty on June 26, 2006, as part of the 625th Session of the Border Patrol Academy. At the time of his passing, he was assigned to the Ajo Station in the Tucson Sector, Arizona. The circumstances of his passing were reviewed by an executive panel and the CBP Commissioner who determined that this death occurred in the line of duty. He is survived by his wife Fawna; children: Isabella, Andre, and Milan; parents: Anibal and Dora; and sister: Tara.

Cremated

Martin Barrios
Entered on Duty: April 28, 2003
Title: Supervisory Border Patrol Agent
End of Watch: November 29, 2021

Details:
SBPA Barrios entered on duty on April 28, 2003, as part of the 548th Session of the Border Patrol Academy. At the time of his passing, he was assigned to the Brian A. Terry Station in the Tucson Sector, Arizona. SBPA Barrios served his country in the United States Navy from 1990 to 1995 prior to joining the United States Border Patrol. The circumstances of his passing were reviewed by an executive panel and the CBP Commissioner who determined that this death occurred in the line of duty. He is survived by his wife Gaby; children: Marty and Samantha; and siblings: Laura and Corina.

Cremated

Salvador Martinez Jr.
Entered on Duty: June 24, 2002
Title: Border Patrol Agent
End of Watch: November 30, 2021

Details:
Agent Martinez entered on duty on June 24, 2002, as part of the 516th Session of the Border Patrol Academy. At the time of his passing, he was assigned to the Alamogordo Station in the El Paso Sector, Texas. The circumstances of his passing were reviewed by an executive panel and the CBP Commissioner who determined that this death occurred in the line of duty. He is survived by his wife Leonor; daughter: Itzel; Father: Salvador; siblings: Elva and Lourdes; and cousins Border Patrol Agent Jesus Aguilar and CBP Management and Program Analyst Fabian Aguilar Sr. Agent Martinez was preceded in death by his mother Julia.

Cremated

2022

Daniel Salazar
Date of Birth: May 1, 1982
Entered on Duty: June 8, 2018
Title: Border Patrol Agent
End of Watch: May 13, 2022

Details:
Border Patrol Agent Salazar entered on duty on June 8, 2018, as part of 1097th Session of the Border Patrol Academy. He recently served at the El Cajon Station in San Diego Sector. He had served in the San Diego Sector his entire career.

Agent Salazar was killed in a single vehicle accident as he was responding to a sensor activation in the early morning hours. Reports indicate that he was driving on an unimproved road when the vehicle left the roadway and rolled down a steep embankment. Agent Salazar was thrown from the vehicle during the accident.

BPA Salazar is survived by his wife Karina Martinez, his 9-month-old son Santiago Daniel Salazar, his father Humberto Salazar, his mother Marielena Salazar and his siblings Nancy Salazar, Cindy Chacon and Michael Salazar.

Gravesite

Raul Gonzalez Jr.
Entered on Duty: August 11, 2011
Title: Border Patrol Agent
End of Watch: December 7, 2022

Details:
Border Patrol Agent Gonzalez entered on duty on August 11, 2011, as part of 980th Session of the Border Patrol Academy. At the time of his passing he was assigned to the McAllen Station in the Rio Grande Valley Sector, Texas

Agent Gonzalez was patrolling the international boundary at approximately 1 AM on an all-terrain vehicle and tracking a group of individuals which illegally crossed the border when he was involved in an accident near Mission, Texas. He was found unresponsive by fellow agents who immediately initiated life-saving efforts and requested emergency medical services. Agent Gonzalez was taken to an area hospital be ambulance where he later passed away.

BPA Gonzalez is survived by his five-year-old daughter, Camila; eight-year-old son, Sebastian; father, Raul; brother, Carlos; grandmother, Maria; aunt, Victoria; stepmother, Esther; uncles who are Border Patrol agents, Lucio and Miguel; girlfriend, CBP Officer Ivonne; and a host of family and friends who loved him.

Gravesite

2023

Freddy Ortiz
Entered on Duty: September 6, 2010
Title: Border Patrol Agent
End of Watch: November 14, 2023

Details
Border Patrol Agent Freddy Ortiz, a member of the 948th Session of the U.S. Border Patrol Academy, joined on September 6, 2010, and served at the Tucson Sector's Douglas Station. Before his service with the Border Patrol, he served in the U.S. Navy and continued his commitment in the U.S. Navy Reserve.

Agent Ortiz was killed in the line of duty on November 14, 2023. He died in an ATV crash in Douglas, Arizona, while responding to reports of undocumented immigrants near Chino Road and 5th Street. His ATV struck a utility pole along International Drive and overturned, resulting in fatal injuries.

He is survived by his mother, Irma; stepfather, Victor; partner, Crystal; and a wide network of family, friends, and colleagues. The Border Patrol community mourns his loss and honors his dedication and sacrifice.

Cremated

2024

Christopher Luna
Date of Birth: February 7, 1973
Entered on Duty: April 9, 2007
Title: Border Patrol Agent
End of Watch: March 8, 2024

Details
Border Patrol Agent Christopher Luna, a member of the 671st Session of the U.S. Border Patrol Academy, joined on April 9, 2007, and was assigned to the Rio Grande Valley Sector's Rio Grande City Station.

Agent Luna was killed in the line of duty on March 8, 2024. He was involved in a tragic accident while on board a National Guard helicopter supporting U.S. Border Patrol operations, which crashed near the U.S./Mexico border.

He is survived by his widow, Esmeralda; children, Sara and Hayden; mother, Josie; father and stepmother, Victor and San Juanita (both retired BPAs); and half-brother, Thad. Agent Luna's commitment and sacrifice are deeply honored by the Border Patrol community.

Jesus Anaya
Date of Birth: November 29, 1985
Entered on Duty: September 27, 2007
Title: Border Patrol Agent
End of Watch: May 23, 2024

Details
Border Patrol Agent Jesus Anaya on May 23, 2024 entered on duty September 27, 2007, as part of the 721st Session of the USBP Academy. Throughout his career, BPA Anaya was assigned to the Rio Grande Valley Sector's Brownsville Station in Texas.

The circumstances of his passing were reviewed by an executive panel and the CBP Commissioner who determined that this death occurred in the line of duty.

Agent Anaya is survived by his wife, Yvonne; children, Jesse, Jace, and Ysabel; parents, Juan and Rosa; and a host of family, friends, and coworkers who will miss him dearly.