COCHISE COUNTY, Ariz. — Officials have identified the Border Patrol official who died in an ATV crash Tuesday night near Douglas. He has been identified as a 44-year-old agent.
Agent Freddy Ortiz was killed after an ATV he was operating left the roadway and struck a light pole near Chino Road and 5th Street, according to a statement released by the Cochise County Sheriff's Office.
Ortiz was transported to the hospital and later pronounced dead.
“U.S. Border Patrol Agent Freddy’s Ortiz’s on-duty death is a tragedy and a stark reminder of the dangerous nature of our mission” Tucson Chief Patrol Agent John Modlin said in a statement. “ I am grateful for all the Border Patrol Agents, first responders, and medical staff who attempted to save his life. My thoughts and prayers are with his family, friends, and loved ones.”
Agent Ortiz had been assigned to the Douglas station in the Tucson Sector. His death is still being investigated by the sheriff's office and U.S. Customs and Border Protection.
“It is an incredibly sad day for our brothers and sisters in Border Patrol and we have only the highest level of respect for the job these brave souls do every single day,” Sheriff Mark Dannels said in a statement.
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