A U.S. Border Patrol agent tragically lost his life during a traffic stop in Vermont, close to the Canadian border. The agent, David Maland, was not only a dedicated law enforcement officer but also a military veteran who provided security at the Pentagon during the events of September 11, his family revealed.
The family shared heartfelt sentiments in a statement, praising Maland for his unwavering commitment to his duties. They expressed that he “served with honor and bravery” and emphasized his deep respect for the work he performed, describing him as a person who prioritized service above personal interests.
Maland, 44 years old, was fatally shot Monday afternoon after stopping a vehicle, according to a spokesperson from U.S. Customs and Border Protection. In the ensuing incident, a German national was also killed, while one suspect sustained injuries and is currently receiving treatment in a local hospital.
This violent episode led to a temporary closure of part of Interstate 91, situated approximately 20 miles from the Canadian border in the small town of Coventry, within Orleans County’s 27,000-resident community, located in Vermont’s Northeast Kingdom.
Maland’s family noted his decision to decline promotional opportunities in favor of remaining in the field. His cousin, state Representative Krista Knudsen from Minnesota, expressed fond memories and respect for him on the House floor, where she advocated for a moment of silence in his honor.
“Chris,” as he was affectionately known, will be remembered for his dedication to keeping Americans safe, Knudsen stated, highlighting his reputation as a person committed to service above all. She expressed pride in his service, calling him a true hero who selflessly protected others.
Maland served in the U.S. Air Force and was confirmed as a veteran by the FBI. His tragic death occurred near the Newport Station of U.S. Customs and Border Protection, part of the Swanton Sector that spans parts of Vermont, New York, and New Hampshire, covering a 295-mile stretch of international border with Canada.
Nearby the Derby Line–Rock Island Border Crossing lies a crucial highway connection to Quebec, contributing to the significant number of French speakers in northern Vermont compared to other regions in New England.
His family highlighted that his career included nine years of military service and 15 years within federal services. During the attacks on September 11, 2001, Maland was stationed at the Pentagon and was later assigned to guard military personnel in a secure bunker in Washington following the attacks.
In addition to his commendable service at the border, Maland was also a K-9 handler stationed in Texas before moving to the northern border. His aunt, Joan Maland, shared her grief, describing him as an “incredible man” who was planning to propose to his partner.
Knudsen reminisced about their shared childhood in Fairmont, Minnesota, where Maland graduated high school in 1999. She expressed deep sorrow over his death while acknowledging the pride he took in serving his country, promising to remember his legacy.
Maland’s passing marks a somber milestone, as he is the first Border Patrol agent to be killed in the line of duty since Javier Vega Jr. was fatally shot near Santa Monica, Texas, in 2014. Vega’s status has since been re-evaluated to confirm that he was indeed on duty at the time of his death. Cases of Border Patrol agents losing their lives in duty are rare but have previously included tragedies such as the deaths of Brian Terry and Nicholas J. Ivie, underscoring the inherent risks faced by those in such vital roles.
