A woman from Washington state is facing charges related to the deadly shooting of a U.S. Border Patrol agent in Vermont, an incident that occurred shortly after authorities began monitoring her and her German companion, who also lost their life during the confrontation, as reported by the FBI on Friday.
Twenty-one-year-old Teresa Youngblut is charged with two counts involving weapons in connection with the death of Border Patrol Agent David Maland, 44, who was killed on Monday during the violent episode in Coventry, a town located around 20 miles (32 kilometers) from the Canadian border.
The FBI affidavit reveals that a border agent initiated a stop on Youngblut and Felix Baukholt on Interstate 91 to carry out an immigration check. At the time, Baukholt was believed to have an expired visa, however, later investigations confirmed his visa was valid, according to official statements from the FBI.
The affidavit claims that Youngblut, who was operating Baukholt’s vehicle, suddenly exited the car and opened fire on Maland and other law enforcement personnel without any prior warning. Baukholt allegedly attempted to reach for a firearm but sustained gunshot injuries, as stated in the affidavit.
It was reported that at least one border agent returned fire towards Youngblut and Baukholt, but authorities have not clarified whose bullets impacted whom during the altercation.
Acting U.S. Attorney Michael Drescher commented that the circumstances leading to this prosecution highlight the dangers faced by law enforcement officers who strive to protect communities and the nation. He expressed a commitment to honor the memory of Agent Maland by pursuing justice through the proper legal channels.
Prior to the shooting, investigators had been conducting periodic surveillance on Youngblut and Baukholt since January 14, prompted by concerns from a hotel employee. The employee had observed Youngblut carrying a firearm and noted that both she and Baukholt were dressed in black tactical clothing. The duo was approached for questioning but stated they were in the area to purchase property and were unwilling to engage in a detailed conversation.
Approximately two hours before the shootout, investigators observed Baukholt leaving a Walmart in Newport, located just north of Coventry, with two packs of aluminum foil. The affidavit notes that he was seen wrapping unknown items while seated in the passenger seat of the car.
In the aftermath of the shooting, authorities conducted a search of the vehicle and discovered several items including cellphones encased in foil, a ballistic helmet, night-vision goggles, respiratory masks, and various ammunition types. Additionally, they found shooting range targets, two-way radios, numerous electronic devices, as well as travel and accommodation information for multiple states, along with what appeared to be a journal.
Youngblut’s public defender’s office has not provided any comments regarding the case when contacted for more information. A man who identified himself as Youngblut’s grandfather declined to make a statement when reached by phone. At the same time, there was no response from addresses related to Youngblut in Seattle and Redmond, Washington, and neighboring residents chose not to offer comments.
Maland’s family, through his aunt Joan Maland, opted not to provide statements concerning the arrest but expressed their deep gratitude for the supportive messages they have received. The family shared a heartfelt message acknowledging the compassion shown by those who did not personally know David Christopher Maland but reached out with condolences. They requested continued prayers as they navigate their ongoing grief.
