TUCSON - An FBI statement appears to confirm that there are strong indications that Border Patrol Agent Nicholas Ivie was killed in a friendly fire incident.

Below is the FBI's statement in full:

"While it is important to emphasize that the FBI's investigation is actively continuing, there are strong preliminary indications that the death of United States Border Patrol Agent Nicholas J. Ivie and the injury to a second agent was the result of an accidental shooting incident involving only the agents. The FBI is utilizing all necessary investigative, forensic, and analytical resources in the course of this investigation. We thank the United States Customs and Border Protection, United States Border Patrol, and the Cochise County Sheriff's Office, for the challenging work they do every day and for their ongoing cooperation in this difficult matter. At the appropriate time further information will be provided, but while the investigation continues it would be inappropriate to comment any further at this time.

"The FBI extends our deepest sympathy and condolences to the family, friends and co-workers of Nicholas Ivie and to our partners in the United States Border Patrol."