Brewer and Napolitano on the deaths of two Border Patrol agents

Statement by Governor Jan Brewer

Deaths of Border Patrol Agents

  “The deaths of two Border Patrol agents in the line of duty Thursday morning is another reminder of the danger these brave men and women face in defense of our country.

“Agents Eduardo Rojas, Jr., 35, and Hector R. Clark, 39, were killed while assisting in the pursuit of suspected drug smugglers near Gila Bend, Arizona. While we await details of how this tragedy happened, I ask that Arizonans join me in offering a prayer for these two agents and their friends and family. Meanwhile, I have ordered state flags to be flown at half staff in tribute to Agents Rojas and Clark.

“As with members of our law enforcement and military, these two Border Patrol agents were doing the work necessary to secure our nation and protect our communities. They face real risks and offer real sacrifice. We owe them our gratitude.”

Statement by Secretary Napolitano on the Deaths of CBP Border Patrol Agents
05/12/2011 07:00 AM EDT

For Immediate Release
Office of the Press Secretary
Contact: 202-282-8010
"It is with great sadness that I learned this morning that U.S. Customs and Border Protection Border Patrol Agents Eduardo Rojas, Jr., and Hector Clark were killed earlier today in an accident near Gila Bend, Ariz. The agents were based out of CBP's Yuma Sector and were on duty at the time of the accident. We are working closely with the Arizona Department of Public Safety and other agencies to determine the cause of the accident.
The entire DHS family expresses our deepest sympathies to the family and friends of these agents. We also keep in our thoughts and prayers all of those who put their lives at risk every day, at home and abroad, to defend our country. We honor their service and pray for their continued safety.”