TUCSON, Ariz. – Tucson Sector Border Patrol agents assigned to the Nogales Station arrested a juvenile and 12 Mexican nationals in a smuggling attempt that led authorities on a vehicle chase throughout Nogales January 21.

Agents patrolling east of Nogales attempted to stop a Dodge Caravan, however; the driver sped away. Agents pursued the vehicle south on State Route 82 until the driver lost control of the van and crashed at the corner of State Route 82 and Morley Ave.

The driver of the vehicle, a 14-year-old United States citizen, fled on foot but was quickly apprehended by Border Patrol agents after a short foot chase. Twelve Mexican nationals, all illegally present in the United States, were found inside the van.

The driver, an Arizona resident, was arrested and is being prosecuted by the Santa Cruz County Attorney’s Office for unlawful flight from a pursuing law enforcement vehicle, a felony. The Mexican nationals, ages 15 to 45, were all arrested for immigration violations.

Tucson Sector Border Patrol strives to deter youth in our community from participating in illicit activity through Operation Detour and T.E.A.M. Kids. These programs provide awareness to local young people on the dangers and consequences of participating in unlawful acts.

School administrators can request an Operation Detour briefing at their institution by contacting Tucson Sector Public Affairs via email at tca-pao@cbp.dhs.gov.

U.S. Customs and Border Protection officials welcome assistance from the community. Citizens can report suspicious activity to the Border Patrol and remain anonymous by calling 1-877-872-7435 toll free. Reporting illicit activity could result in saving someone’s life.