A US border patrol agent killed near the US-Mexican border in Arizona died as a result of friendly fire -- accidental gunfire from another agent -- NBC News reported Friday, citing state and federal officials.

The agent, 30-year-old Nicholas Ivie, died from gunshot injuries after a fellow agent accidentally discharged his weapon Tuesday while responding to reports of possible illegal movements at the border, NBC News cited sources as saying.

The conclusion is based on an analysis of ballistics, the lack of evidence of other criminals in the area at the time of the shooting, and other factors, sources told NBC.

Another agent was wounded in the incident and was released from the hospital after undergoing surgery. A third agent at the scene was unharmed.

Federal and state officials announced in the aftermath of the shooting that criminals had been responsible for Ivie’s death.