Indio Border Patrol Agent Dies After Being Struck By Vehicle

INDIO, CA — A border patrol agent assigned to the federal agency's Indio Station has died after being struck by a vehicle at a crash scene, the U.S. Border Patrol announced Tuesday morning.

El Centro Sector Border Patrol Agent Alejandro Flores-Bañuelos died Monday afternoon after being struck on Highway 86, north of N. Marina Drive, in Salton City, according to the agency.

Flores was tending to a vehicle at a crash scene during a period of limited visibility when a passing vehicle hit him, the agency said in a released statement.

Gusty winds, with blowing dust and sand, were reported Monday.

An Imperial County Sheriff’s Office deputy provided first-aid to Flores and called for emergency medical personnel, but the agent was pronounced dead at Pioneers Memorial Hospital after being transported by ambulance, the USBP reported.

“It is with a profound sense of loss that we mourn the passing of one of our own, Border Patrol Agent Alejandro Flores,” said El Centro Sector Chief Patrol Agent Gregory Bovino. “The men and women of the El Centro Sector will be deeply impacted by this tragic loss.”

Flores leaves behind his wife and three children.

The California Highway Patrol is investigating the incident. There were no reported arrests in connection with the agent's death.