Border Patrol Agent Found Dead in California

INDIO, Calif. --

A border patrol agent was found dead Sunday, floating in a canal outside of Indio, according to authorities.

Customs and Border Patrol officials said Richard Goldstein, 37, was reported missing Sunday afternoon, after his service vehicle was found parked and idling near the Coachella Canal.

Local, state and federal agencies conducted a search and rescue effort to locate Goldstein. Crews discovered the agent's body in the canal near Niland, located east of the Salton Sea, officials said.

His cause of death is unknown.

The Imperial County Sheriff's Department is now investigating the case.

Goldstein was a five-year veteran of the Border Patrol.

"The loss of such a promising young agent, bravely carrying out his duty, has created a great emptiness within our ranks," said Carl L. McClafferty Chief Patrol Agent of the El Centro Sector.

"Our thoughts and prayers are now with his family, as we honor his courage and sacrifice," McClafferty said.

The memorial service for Richard Goldstein will be held at 9:30 a.m. Thursday at Southwest Community Church, 77-701 Fred Waring Drive.

A law enforcement procession will travel from Wiefel’s Cremation and Funeral Service, 690 Vella Rd. to Southwest Community Church.