In a shocking incident near the San Diego-Imperial County border, a group of hikers exploring the Jacumba Wilderness area was attacked by suspected cartel members. The incident, which occurred around midday on Wednesday, involved two armed individuals believed to be affiliated with a cartel confronting the hikers about a thousand yards inside US territory. According to a Department of Homeland Security source, the assailants shouted at the hikers in Spanish, and when their commands weren't understood, they fired two warning shots into the air. The situation escalated when the hikers attempted to retreat, leading the gunmen to fire additional shots, one of which struck a hiker in the leg.

Border Patrol agents swiftly responded to the scene, rescuing the hikers and neutralizing the threat. The injured hiker is expected to make a full recovery. The Border Patrol Tactical Unit (BORTAC) and specialized marksmen have been deployed to the area to enhance security and investigate the incident. Authorities are currently working to identify the specific cartel responsible for the attack. The El Centro Sector Border Patrol released a statement condemning the violence and emphasizing their commitment to protecting citizens and preventing cartel activity on American soil.
