15 people found dehydrated in desert near Gila Bend
by Senta Scarborough - Jun. 22, 2008 03:23 PM
The Arizona Republic
Fifteen adults, including three suffering severe dehydration, have been taken to local hospitals after they flagged down motorists for help along State Route 85 near Gila Bend Sunday afternoon, U.S. Border Patrol officials said.

A citizen reported that people were trying to get assistance from passing motorists around noon at mile marker 9, U.S. Border Patrol Spokesman Mario Escalante said.

U.S. Border Patrol responded to the area and found 15 people suffering from dehydration. The temperature was around 109 degrees in Phoenix, according to the National Weather Service website.

"Most of the people were in pretty bad shape," Escalante said. "At this time, their safety and well-being is our first priority."

Three of those people were suffering from severe dehydration and were flown by helicopters to local hospitals for treatment. The others were transported by ambulance to local hospitals, Escalante said. There were no children involved, Escalante said.

It is unknown whether the people are undocumented and have recently crossed the U.S. border. After the people have received proper medical treatment, border patrol officials will investigate and determine their legal status, Escalante said.






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