Suspect Shot During Exchange of Gunfire with Border Patrol in Arizona Amid Human Trafficking Investigation
- David S
- 3 days ago
- 2 min read
Border Patrol Confrontation Leads to Shooting
A man sought in connection with an alleged human trafficking incident was shot during a gunfire exchange with U.S. Border Patrol agents early Tuesday morning in Arivaca, Arizona, roughly 10 miles from the U.S.-Mexico border. Authorities say the suspect fired at agents and a manned CBP helicopter before being struck by return fire.
Pima County Sheriff Chris Nanos confirmed that no agents were injured during the confrontation, and the suspect is currently in serious but stable condition.
Pursuit and Gunfire Details
According to Sheriff Nanos, Border Patrol agents initially attempted to stop a vehicle linked to the human trafficking investigation. When the occupants fled, agents located the vehicle again later that morning. The driver, identified as 34-year-old Patrick Gary Schlegel of Sahuarita, Arizona, fled on foot during the second attempt at a traffic stop.
During the foot pursuit, the suspect opened fire on the pursuing Border Patrol agent, who returned fire, striking Schlegel. FBI Phoenix Division Special Agent Heith Janke confirmed that shots were also fired at a CBP helicopter during the incident.
Suspect Background and Charges
Patrick Gary Schlegel has a "significant criminal history," including an active federal arrest warrant issued last year for escape related to a prior federal alien smuggling conviction. Authorities expect Schlegel to face multiple federal charges, including:
Assault on a federal officer
Alien smuggling
Felon in possession of a firearm
The Department of Homeland Security stated that the incident remains under investigation, and additional details will be released as they become available. The Pima County Sheriff’s Office is leading the use-of-force investigation at the FBI’s request.
Federal Response and Ongoing Investigation
The FBI and Homeland Security are coordinating with local law enforcement to ensure the investigation is thorough. Officials emphasized that the Border Patrol agent followed proper protocols and that the suspect’s criminal history and prior convictions are under review as part of the federal case.
Conclusion
The shooting highlights the dangers faced by Border Patrol agents during high-risk operations involving human trafficking and other serious crimes. Patrick Schlegel remains in custody and is expected to face federal charges, while law enforcement continues to investigate the incident to ensure public safety and accountability.
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