Body armor shields Border Patrol agent struck by gunfire

SANTA FE, N.M. (AP) — A Border Patrol agent sporting system armor was struck by gunfire but avoided major damage Thursday although confronting the occupants of a motor vehicle suspected of migrant smuggling in New Mexico, federal authorities mentioned.

6 persons have been taken into custody just after the auto afterwards crashed, the U.S. Customs and Border Safety claimed. The agency included that the agent was shot in the chest numerous times and was produced after a healthcare assessment.

The officer, who was not discovered, experienced returned fire as a motor vehicle sped absent on a rural state freeway north of Hatchita.

“The fleeing auto was involved in a rolled in excess of accident a few miles down the street and agents took 6 folks into custody,” in accordance to the statement.

It stated two of those people in custody were flown to a trauma middle in El Paso, Texas, for cure. Their problems and identities were not quickly unveiled.

New Mexico Point out Law enforcement officers were assisting in an investigation, which also concerned the FBI, in accordance to Point out Law enforcement Lt. Mark Soriano.

Immigration and border enforcement have arrive less than increasd scrutiny in the latest months. On Thursday, Joe Biden disclosed he would make his first check out as president to the U.S. border with Mexico at El Paso. He mentioned particulars had been staying labored out for a check out in relationship with his conference subsequent 7 days in Mexico Town with leaders of Mexico and Canada.

Biden also declared Thursday that the U.S. would instantly get started turning away Cubans, Haitians and Nicaraguans who cross the border from Mexico illegally, expand on an current energy to prevent Venezuelans attempting to enter the U.S.