Hiker Shot, Robbed in Valley of the Moon in Jacumba Wilderness
A hiker was shot and robbed Wednesday while hiking in the Jacumba Wilderness area, roughly 1,000 feet north of the U.S.-Mexico border. The incident occurred near the popular Valley of the Moon, which draws off-road enthusiasts and climbers to its rugged terrain and dramatic rock formations.
According to U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP), two hikers—one American and one Canadian—were approached by armed suspects believed to be affiliated with a Mexican cartel. The men demanded the hikers move toward them; when the hikers refused, the suspects opened fire, striking the American in the leg. The assailants then stole the victims’ cell phones and backpacks before fleeing.
The photos below were taken during the rescue:
Border Patrol agents responded after receiving an emergency call from the Imperial County Sheriff’s Office. They stabilized the injured hiker and CBP Air and Marine Operations extracted him via helicopter. He was then transferred to a medical flight for treatment at Sharp Medical Center in San Diego. Authorities say the attackers fled back across the border and remain at large.
“This incident highlights the ongoing security challenges in this area,” said El Centro Sector Chief Gregory Bovino in a press release. “All threats will be addressed vigorously.” The investigation is ongoing, and officials remind visitors to remain cautious when exploring remote areas of the Jacumba Wilderness.
