“Our agents relentlessly patrol a vast and hazardous landscape that can potentially be life-threatening,” remarked Del Rio Sector Acting Chief Patrol Agent Matthew J. Hudak. “Thanks to our tremendous partnerships and the skills of our personnel, this man’s story was brought to a safe and happy conclusion.”

On March 9, Kinney County Sheriff’s Office had been contacted by a local ranch owner stating that a 68-year-old family member, who suffers from Parkinson’s disease, had gone for a walk within the property but had not returned. Brackettville Station agents and officials from other law enforcement groups quickly responded to the area. Officials searched for the man for several hours. At 3:30 p.m., an Air and Marine Operations helicopter was able to locate the individual, on a bluff, far from any established roads. 

Border Patrol personnel on all-terrain vehicles, braving the steep route, reached the man’s position where they provided first aid and assessed his physical condi

tion. Unable to land at the man’s exact location, the helicopter touched down at the nearest clearing and Border Patrol agents on all-terrain vehicles took the man to the helicopter. He was taken by air to a waiting Border Patrol Search Trauma and Rescue team. He was evaluated and it was determined that he did not need medical treatment. Agents returned the grateful individual to his family.