Tucson, Arizona - Tucson Sector Border Patrol agents from the Nogales Station apprehended three male Mexican nationals and rescued a fourth west of Nogales early Thursday.

Agents on horseback and ATVs arrested three men for entering the country illegally. The men told agents they had abandoned another man who crossed with them after he lost consciousness. Agents located the unconscious man and requested emergency medical assistance from the Nogales Fire Department.

Nogales FD arrived shortly after and transported the man to a local hospital and was subsequently flown to a Tucson hospital for more advanced medical care.

Agents arrested the other three men and transported them to the Nogales Station to be processed for immigration violations, in accordance with Tucson Sector guidelines. The fourth Mexican national will also be processed for immigration violations after he is released from medical care.

Border Patrol officials encourage anyone in distress to call 911 or activate a rescue beacon before becoming a casualty.

The Border Patrol, along with Customs and Border Protection, welcomes assistance from the community. Citizens can report suspicious activity to the Border Patrol by calling 1-877-872-7435 toll free. All calls will be answered and remain anonymous.