San Diego police are investigating the Christmas Eve death of a 40-year-old man during a struggle with border agents at the San Ysidro crossing.

The man, whose name was not disclosed, entered the United States from Mexico through the pedestrian walkway about 7 p.m., according to homicide Lt. Paul Rorrison.

During a computer check, U.S. Customs and Border Protection agents found that he had an outstanding felony warrant and should be considered armed and dangerous. Officers took him to a security office, where they seized an undisclosed amount of heroin, according to a statement from CBP.

Agents attempted to arrest the man, who was not handcuffed, but he jumped over a counter and attacked two officers, the statement said.


Other agents attempted to subdue the man. One used a Taser, Rorrison said.

The man ''became unresponsive and stopped breathing,” Rorrison said. He died despite attempts at CPR.

Four agents received “moderate injuries” and were taken to the hospital. Their names were not released.

The San Diego County medical examiner will determine the cause of death. The San Diego Police Department, CBP’s Office of Internal Affairs and the Department of Homeland Security’s Office of Inspector General are investigating the incident as well, according to the statement.


Twitter: @LATSandiego