A 6-year-old Costa Rican boy was rescued in good condition by U.S. Border Patrol agents after being abandoned by his smuggler Tuesday evening, authorities said.
Agents from the Ajo Station found him west of Lukeville, just north of the border without food or water.
The boy told agents he was on his way to see his parents in the United States and that he was abandoned after his smuggler told him agents would eventually find him.
He was brought to Tucson for further processing, the news release said.
"This incident highlights the dangers faced by migrants at the hands of smugglers," the release said. "Children in particular are extremely vulnerable, not only to exploitation, but also to the elements in the environment."
The agency advises anyone in distress to call 911 or, if possible, activate an emergency beacon in the desert as soon as possible.
