BLAINE, Wash. — A man died in U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) custody at the Peace Arch Port of Entry after a car crash and subsequent foot chase on September 20.
According to a CBP news release, the incident occurred around 10:13 p.m. when a driver in a white Mercedes-Benz entered a southbound exit ramp in the wrong direction near the U.S.-Canada border. The driver, a U.S. citizen whose name has not been released, crashed into a curb and stopped in a grassy area south of the primary inspection lanes.
CBP officers reported that as the driver exited the vehicle and fled toward the inspection area, a handgun, later identified as a Glock 26, fell from his waist. Officers ordered him to the ground; when he did not comply, they detained him after he stumbled and fell, handcuffing him and placing him in leg restraints due to continued resistance.
A search of a fanny pack he was carrying allegedly revealed cocaine, marijuana, ketamine, and a THC vape cartridge. By 10:19 p.m., officers transported him in a wheelchair to a secondary inspection area. When they tried to wake him shortly after and received no response, they called 911 for medical assistance.
CBP officers began CPR and used an automated external defibrillator, which did not advise a shock. Medical personnel arrived at 10:42 p.m. and took over lifesaving efforts. The man was pronounced dead at 11:11 p.m. A preliminary autopsy showed major artery blockage. The Whatcom County Medical Examiner's Office is conducting further examinations.
The CBP Office of Professional Responsibility is reviewing the incident and has notified the Department of Homeland Security's Office of Inspector General.