On July 14, 1989, Air Operations Supervisor David F. Roberson departed the Marine Corps Air Station, Yuma, Arizona, at 5:50 a.m., piloting Service aircraft N29162. Shortly after takeoff, he responded to a request for assistance in the Yuma freight yards where Border Patrol units were conducting freight train check operations. At 6:10 a.m., Agent Roberson departed the freight yard area and proceeded south to County 23rd and Avenue 2E to assist ground units in working a trail of three aliens.

 

Upon arrival, Agent Roberson commenced “sign cutting” while maintaining radio contact with Agents David Ramirez and Rosendo Guillen were working in the immediate area on the trail. At 6:24 a.m., the aircraft stalled and crashed. The aircraft was destroyed by the impact and post-crash fire. Agent Roberson died instantly.