Calexico, California - A U.S. Border Patrol agent assigned to the Calexico Border Patrol station was assaulted while attempting to arrest a group of suspected illegal immigrants around 10 p.m., Tuesday evening.

The incident occurred near the Calexico West Port of Entry and the New River after an agent observed a group of individuals illegally enter the United States.

The agent was able to detain one man and place him in custody in the back seat of his service vehicle before turning his attention to the rest of the group.

While the agent was trying to arrest others in the group, one of the men exited the river and opened the rear passenger door of the agent’s service vehicle, allowing the man in custody to attempt an escape.  Both men retreated into the river.

The agent pursued both men.  Outnumbered, the agent was assaulted by the two men, while other members of the group began to throw objects at the agent.  Other agents responded to assist the agent, however the rest of the aggressors returned to Mexico.  The escapee was successfully placed under arrest.

During the assault, the agent suffered minor injuries.

The man is currently in federal custody pending criminal charges.

“The New River and immediate surrounding area remains one of our most challenging and dangerous areas to work,” said El Centro Sector Assistant Chief Patrol Agent David S. Kim.  “The border wall system replacing the old fencing in that area is a solid step in mitigating those challenges.”