CBP releases bodycam footage of fatal border incident

U.S. Customs and Border Protection this week released body camera footage of a fatal incident in March of this year during which Border Patrol agents pursued a vehicle suspected of transporting illegal immigrants.

On March 14, 2023, agents pursued a BMW suspected of transporting undocumented migrants near Sasabe, Ariz., CBP confirmed. A chase ensued when the car failed to stop.

The body camera footage shows one agent approach the vehicle, break its windows with a baton, and attempt to secure the driver, who continues to try to move the car in an apparent attempt to break away. The agent draws his weapon and fires at the driver, killing him.

The driver was a U.S. citizen. He was transporting five undocumented migrants, three of whom were in the trunk of the vehicle. The agent was placed on administrative leave.

U.S. Customs and Border Protection Acting Commissioner Troy A. Miller indicated that the agency would publish the results of its internal review and that a separate investigation was ongoing.

"This use of deadly force in Sasabe, Arizona on March 14 is being investigated by CBP’s Office of Professional Responsibility to assess compliance with our policies," he confirmed in a press release. "Concurrently, an external criminal investigation is being conducted by the Pima County Sheriff’s Office. "

"At the conclusion of these independent reviews, CBP’s National Use of Force Review Board will review this incident to determine whether the Border Patrol Agent followed CBP policy regarding the permissible use of force," he continued.

"Law enforcement is incredibly challenging work, and the border is a dynamic operating environment. CBP personnel face this challenge with sound judgment, extensive training and a steadfast commitment to the CBP mission," he added. "I am proud of the tireless work CBP personnel perform daily to safeguard our borders and keep people safe. We are committed to working every day to better prepare and support them for the challenges they face."

Ben Whedon is an editor and reporter for Just the News. Follow him on Twitter.