Patrol Inspector Pringle was killed in an automobile accident while investigating a vehicle suspected of containing illegal aliens.
He was speaking with a special agent from another agency near Parker, Arizona, when they observed the vehicle. The occupants were also suspected of conducting illegal activities at the Parker Dam. As Inspector Pringle went to investigate a tire on his patrol car blew out, causing him to lose control. He succumbed to his injuries three days later.
Inspector Pringle had served with the United States Border Patrol for four years.