Shots Fired on Northeastern Border

(Derby Line, Vermont) In this community that straddles the U.S.-Canadian border, a Border Patrol agent on routine patrol was assaulted by three people, two males and a female. Fearing for his life, the agent drew his weapon and fired two shots.

According to Border Patrol spokesman, Mark Henry,

"They knocked him down, there was a struggle," Henry said. "One subject started punching and hitting him; at that point he became concerned for his life."

The agent fired two shots. A male and female suspect were taken into custody. The third person fled into Canada.

Neither person in custody was wounded. Agents don't know about the other suspect.

Henry said he couldn't release the names of those in custody and he didn't know their nationalities.

Shots fired on the northeastern border is a rare occurrence. Reportedly, only once before has it happened. In August 2007, an agent fired his weapon at a vehicle that illegally entered the U.S. and was trying to run him over. No suspect was arrested in the case.

Companion post at Diggers Realm.