WASHINGTON (AP) — Homeland Security Secretary Janet Napolitano says the U.S. will seek extradition so it can prosecute Mexican drug cartel suspects accused in the shooting death of an American agent in a highway ambush.
Napolitano, who was testifying Thursday before the House Homeland Security Committee, declined to discuss reported statements from suspects being held in Mexico that the Feb. 15 killing of Immigration and Customs Enforcement agent Jaime (HY'-meh zuh-PAH'-tuh) Zapata was a case of mistaken identity. Several suspects have been arrested, and Mexican authorities say one has confessed.
She said she could not comment on evidence in the ongoing investigation, which is being led by Mexican authorities.
ICE agent Victor Avila was wounded in the attack. U.S. authorities have said both agents identified themselves as U.S. diplomats just before the shooting.
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