    [Public Papers of the Presidents of the United States: William J. Clinton (1998, Book I)]
    [January 7, 1998]
    [Page 9]
    [From the U.S. Government Publishing Office www.gpo.gov]

    Statement on the Death of Manuel Zurita
    January 7, 1998

        Hillary and I were deeply saddened to learn of the death of Customs
    Senior Special Agent Manuel Zurita. We are eternally grateful for the
    courage and bravery of the men and women who protect us each and every
    day. This tragic accident painfully reminds us of the risks our law
    enforcement officials face keeping our country safe.
        Our thoughts and prayers are with his wife and their four children
    as they deal with this devastating loss.

    Note: Agent Zurita was fatally injured in a January 1 boat accident
    while aboard a U.S. Customs Service vessel providing security for the
    President's arrival in St. Thomas, U.S. Virgin Islands.