Friendly fire is likely the case in a U.S. Border Patrol agents death
The fatal shooting of a U.S. Border Patrol agent and the wounding of another agent was most likely due to friendly fire.
The FBI stated, “While it is important to emphasize that the FBI’s investigation is actively continuing, there are strong preliminary indications that the death of United States Border Patrol Agent Nicholas J. Ivie, 30, and the injury to a second agent was the result of an accidental shooting incident involving only the agents,” James Turgal, special agent in charge of the FBI’s Phoenix division, according to CNN.
Shell casings were found but they are believed to be the Border Patrol agents and investigators are currently awaiting ballistics tests.
“We have much to learn and conclude from this incident, and I ask for the public’s patience and understanding during this difficult time,” Jeff Self, commander of U.S. Customs and Border Protection’s Arizona field joint command.
Nicholas Ivie, a 30-year-old agent, was killed. He was from Provo, Utah and had been working for the border patrol since January 2008. He is survived by a wife and two children.
In a statement, his parents and brothers said: “We are extremely proud of Nick and for his service both in his community and our country. He loved what he did and he gave it his all, including his life. Our thoughts and prayers are with his wonderful wife and his two beautiful girls.”
The President called and offered his condolences and to thanked the family for Ivie’s service. “The president told the family they are in his thoughts and prayers and made clear that his administration was doing everything it could to locate those responsible for this tragic event,” a White House statement said.
ABC reports that the U.S. Customs and Border Protection have issued this statement:
“Last night, the U.S. Customs and Border Protection family suffered the loss of Border Patrol Agent Nicholas J. Ivie at the hands of criminals operating on the border near Naco, Arizona. Another agent was also wounded and was treated at a local hospital. Agent Ivie died in the line of duty, protecting our nation against those who threaten our way of life. His death only strengthens our resolve to enforce the rule of law and bring those responsible to justice. Our thoughts and prayers are with Agent Ivie’s family and friends in this difficult time.”
The agent that was wounded was not identified yet. He was released from the hospital Wednesday.
