Border Patrol Agent Killed in On-Duty ATV Crash

A Border Patrol agent in Texas died in an ATV accident while in the line of duty early Wednesday, December 7.

According to a statement from Customs and Border Protection (CBP) sent to Government Fleet, Border Patrol Agent Raul Gonzalez, Jr. was patrolling the border on an all-terrain vehicle (ATV) near McAllen Station at about 1:00 a.m. tracking a group of people who had illegally crossed the border, when he was involved in an accident near Mission, Texas. He was found unresponsive by fellow agents who initiated life-saving efforts and requested EMS.

Gonzalez was transported by ambulance to a nearby hospital, where he died.

Authorities did not release details behind the crash.

In a tweet, Troy Miller, acting CBP commissioner, posted a statement saying, "I am deeply saddened to share news on the loss of Border Patrol Agent Raul Gonzalez Jr. yesterday morning. Agent Gonzalez began his career with USBP in 2011, and we will be forever grateful for his service. We extend our deepest condolences to his family, friends and colleagues."

United States Border Patrol Chief Raul Ortiz released a statement saying, “the death of an agent who died while securing our nation’s border is a tremendous loss for our organization and our nation, our prayers are with his family and co-workers during this difficult time.”