Multiple agents with U.S. Customs and Border Protection's (CBP) Air and Marine Operations (AMO) were shot, with a possible fatality, in a firefight with suspected smugglers off the coast of Puerto Rico Thursday morning.
First reported by the Washington Examiner, the agents who were wounded were taken back to land and life-flighted for medical care.
SCOOP: CBP sources say 5 U.S. border agents shot, including one fatally, by narcos off the coast of Puerto Rico
— Anna Giaritelli (@Anna_Giaritelli) November 17, 2022
The agents are not Border Patrol, but from Customs & Border Protection's Air & Marine Operations arm.
The agents were taken back to land and life-flighted.@CBPAMO pic.twitter.com/5wQdXXmxgw
Two suspects were taken into custody for the shooting.
UPDATE
— Anna Giaritelli (@Anna_Giaritelli) November 17, 2022
Two men taken into federal custody for maritime shooting of multiple U.S. border agents off Puerto Rico coast this morning
Full story: https://t.co/hbbkqSnZik pic.twitter.com/phgHE3Pct8
In a statement, CBP confirmed three agents were wounded in the incident but did not confirm deaths. The gun battle took place 14 miles off the coast of Cabo Rojo.
#BORDERNEWS Three CBP Air Marine Operations Agents were shot this morning near Puerto Rico. The details amid the shooting are still under investigation. I’ll keep you updated with the latest. pic.twitter.com/b8KWSkyr2y
— Sydney Hernández (@SydneyHdzTV) November 17, 2022
Update:
CBP confirmed one of the agents was killed in the firefight. Acting CBP Commissioner also confirmed the death on Twitter.
Our hearts are heavy today due to the death & injury of Marine Interdiction Agents following an exchange of gunfire w/ suspected smugglers off the Puerto Rican coast. We're working with partners to ensure those responsible are brought to justice & will share info as we are able.
— CBP Troy Miller (@CBPTroyMiller) November 17, 2022
Similar to sectors along the southern border, the Ramey Sector, which encompasses 730-shore miles throughout Puerto Rico and the U.S. Virgin Islands, has seen the effects of the ongoing crisis at the U.S.-Mexico border when it comes to illegal immigrants reaching U.S. territory to turn themsleves in and drug smuggling.
Breaking News!
— Scott D. Garrett, Acting Chief Patrol Agent (@USBPChiefRMY) November 16, 2022
In the early morning hours, Ramey Sector #usborderpatrol agents detected a smuggling vessel near Guajataca, PR. Contraband was found in the area. #USBP and multiple law enforcement agencies are currently working the scene.#BorderSecurity#vigilance#HonorFirst pic.twitter.com/ezBmYRCfyH
Happening Now!
— Scott D. Garrett, Acting Chief Patrol Agent (@USBPChiefRMY) October 27, 2022
Ramey Sector #BorderPatrol agents are currently working two maritime smuggling events. 18 Haitian migrants have been detained including a pregnant female and a minor.
#USBorderPatrol#HonorFirst#USBP pic.twitter.com/FDjNsufzt6