Shots fired at federal agents near WA border, suspect at large
Apr 2, 2013, 4:06 PM | Updated: 6:05 pm
The manhunt continues for a suspected drug smuggler accused of shooting at U.S. Customs and Border Protection agents Tuesday morning in a remote area along the U.S.-Canadian border in northwest Washington.
Whatcom County Undersheriff Jeff Parks said deputies were called to a “known smuggling corridor” east of Sumas, Wash., to assist federal agents around 9 a.m. Tuesday. He said the initial report was of shots fired.
According to Mike Milne, a spokesperson for the Customs and Border Protection office in Seattle, agents tried to contact two men dressed in camouflage carrying backpacks in the remote forested area.
“One of those subjects when encountered fired at the agents and fled into the woods,” he said. “The other individual was apprehended.”
Federal agents and local police on both sides of the border have set up road blocks and helicopters are being used to search the area.
Milne said they believe the suspect is still armed.
The Associated Press contributed to this report.
