On the afternoon of January 20, 2025, a routine traffic stop on Interstate 91 near Newport, Vermont, escalated into a violent confrontation that resulted in the death of a United States Border Patrol Agent. David Christopher Maland, a 44-year-old Caucasian male, was shot and killed during the encounter. A veteran of the U.S. Air Force, Maland had served with the Border Patrol for nearly a decade and was assigned to the Swanton Sector.
He was also a K-9 handler.
The incident unfolded when Agent Maland and his partner pulled over a vehicle. Without warning, a female passenger exited the car and opened fire on the agents. A male occupant of the vehicle was also armed. During the ensuing shootout, Agent Maland was fatally wounded. The male suspect, later identified as Felix Baukholt, was killed at the scene.
The female suspect, Teresa Youngblut, 21, was wounded and taken into custody. She has since been federally charged in connection with Maland's death. The investigation has suggested a possible link between the suspects and a group referred to as the "Zizians." This group is reportedly of interest to federal prosecutors in connection with other violent incidents across the country.
David Maland was remembered by his family and colleagues for his dedication and service. He had previously worked as a security officer at the Pentagon and was on duty during the September 11th attacks. At the time of his death, he was planning to marry his partner. His death marked the first fatal shooting of a Border Patrol agent in the line of duty since 2014.
