Border Patrol Agents Locate Missing 78-Year-Old Sierra Vista Woman After Day-Long Search

A coordinated effort between U.S. Border Patrol and the Cochise County Sheriff’s Office led to the successful recovery of a missing elderly woman in Sierra Vista, Arizona, after she was lost for more than 24 hours. The 78-year-old woman was located by the Border Patrol’s elite Search, Trauma, and Rescue (BORSTAR) team on Monday evening.

The search began on the afternoon of April 21, after Cochise County officials requested assistance from BORSTAR, part of the Tucson Sector. Agents deployed to the area where the woman’s vehicle was last seen and initiated their search from that point. A service canine was used to aid in the effort and was instrumental in locating the woman by approximately 6 p.m.

Following her discovery, members of the Cochise County Search and Rescue team administered initial medical care before the woman was transferred to medical personnel for further treatment at a nearby hospital. Her current condition was not disclosed, but she was alive when found.

U.S. Customs and Border Protection emphasized that agents often serve beyond their traditional roles, extending assistance to members of the local community in emergency situations. The public is encouraged to report suspicious activity to the Border Patrol, which may help in both law enforcement and life-saving efforts.

Article by multiple RFHC contributors, based upon information from a U.S. Customs and Border Protection press release

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