CNB Crime: Suspect who Assaulted Border Patrol Agent Identified

JACUMBA, Calif. November 16, 2015 (CNBNewsnet)—The U.S. Border Patrol San Diego Sector has identified one of its priority targets as being the key suspect in an assault against a Border Patrol agent last night near Jacumba.

Martel Valencia-Cortez, 39, was allegedly smuggling a group of 14 individuals across the border on foot through wet, sub-40 degree weather along remote, dangerous terrain on Carries Mountain at about 7 p.m. Upon initial encounter, agents reported that Valencia-Cortez immediately fled from the group and ran towards higher ground on the mountain. As the agents gave chase and closed the distance, Valencia-Cortez allegedly hurled a softball-sized rock at the agents, striking an agent in the face. In response, the agent fired multiple rounds from his government-issued handgun at Valencia-Cortez.