FBI offers $25,000 reward in case of hiker shot near U.S.-Mexico border

The Federal Bureau of Investigation is offering up to $25,000 for information leading to the identification, arrest, and conviction of men suspected of shooting at four hikers, striking one of them, near the U.S.-Mexico border, the agency said Friday.

The incident occurred about 10:35 a.m. Jan. 22, roughly 1,000 feet north from the international border in an area known as Valley of the Moon, near the boundary of San Diego and Imperial counties.

The FBI said that two men began shooting in the direction of the hikers, hitting one of them. The men then approached the group, held them at gunpoint, and stole their valuables.

The shooting victim, who was injured in the leg, was flown to a San Diego hospital for treatment. The wounded hiker’s injuries were not considered life-threatening, the FBI said.

“The FBI will not stop until we find the individuals responsible for this violent crime on these innocent hikers,” said Special Agent in Charge Mark Dargis of the FBI’s San Diego Field Office in a statement. “No one should ever fear being shot at and robbed at gunpoint—regardless of where they are. The FBI and our law enforcement partners will put all our collective investigative resources behind locating and apprehending those responsible to ensure justice is served.”

The two suspects were last seen heading southwest toward the Mexican border, officials said.

Anyone with information regarding those allegedly involved in the case was urged to contact their local FBI field office or the nearest U.S. embassy or consulate. Tips can also be submitted online at tips.fbi.gov. All information can be submitted anonymously.