Manhunt on for shooter who killed Border Patrol agent

A Border Patrol agent was shot and killed late Tuesday night in an area near Rio Rico, Ariz.

Agent Brian Terry, 40, encountered a group of suspects when he was shot at, according to a release from the Border Patrol.

Terry was waiting with a team of other agents in a remote desert area when a gunfight brokeout with the suspects, a union leader representing the Border Patrol said.

National Border Patrol Council President T.J. Bonner says the agents were trying to catch suspected bandits, who target illegal immigrants for robbery.

Four of those suspects were arrested. One is still at large, authorities said.

Border Patrol officials and officers with the Department of Public Safety are scouring the area with K9 units in an effort to find that suspect.

The incident happened just after 11 p.m. in the Peck Canyon area just north of Nogales.

The Federal Bureau of Investigations is now involved in the case and is looking into the agent's death, Border Patrol spokesman Eric Cantu said.

"Our thoughts and prayers are with the Terry family for their tragic loss," said CBP Commissioner Alan Bersin. "Our commitment to Agent Terry and his family is that we will do everything possible to bring to justice those responsible for this despicable act."

Rep. Gabrielle Giffords, who requested 1,200 National Guard troops for the border in May, said more must be done to ensure the safety of those who work and live near the border.

"What additional tragedies must Southern Arizonans endure before my colleagues in Congress and the Obama administration address this crisis with the full weight of our resources? We must act and we must act now."

Sen. John McCain, whose request for 6,000 troops was rebuffed, also called for more resources along the border.

"The increased violence . . . demands that Congress provide the necessary resources and personnel to ensure the safety of all Americans, especially border patrol agents stationed on the border, and fulfill the Federal government's responsibility to secure our border."

Rep. Raúl M. Grijalva called for stronger efforts to quell border violence.

"Neither we nor our neighbors want to see the border region become more dangerous, either for civilians or the brave men and women who protect them," Grijalva said. "This crime should not deter the many peaceful efforts underway to improve the quality of life for people on both sides of the border."

Terry is the third agent killed on duty this year. Mark Van Doren was killed in an auto accident in May, and Michael V. Gallagher was killed by a drunk driver in September.

Since 1919, 111 Border Patrol agents have died in the line of duty, most in vehicle accidents.