A chaotic scene on Interstate 91 in Coventry, Vermont, ended in tragedy as 44-year-old Border Patrol Agent David Maland was shot and killed during a gunfight that erupted after a traffic stop, leading to federal charges against 21-year-old Teresa Youngblut of Washington state.
The FBI alleges that Youngblut, driving a car registered to German national Felix Baukholt, opened fire Monday without warning after being stopped for a traffic violation.
She exited the car and began shooting, investigators wrote in an affidavit as reported by The Associated Press. Baukholt, her passenger, was also armed but was fatally shot during the exchange. Authorities confirmed that at least one border agent discharged their weapon during the confrontation with Youngblut and Baukholt, but they have not revealed whose gunfire caused the injuries.
The confrontation marked the culmination of days of federal surveillance after a hotel employee reported suspicious behavior. The pair had been spotted in tactical gear, and Youngblut was allegedly seen carrying a firearm. When approached by authorities before the shooting, the duo claimed they were looking to buy property in the area but declined further discussion, the affidavit revealed.
Hours before the deadly encounter, agents observed Baukholt purchasing aluminum foil at a nearby Walmart. He was later seen using the material to wrap items in the vehicle. After the shootout, a search of the car yielded findings of wrapped cellphones, a ballistic helmet, night-vision goggles and shooting range targets.
"To think people who never knew David Christopher Maland personally would reach out with condolences and beautiful words of support has been beyond our imagination," Maland's family said in a statement. "From the bottom of our hearts, thank you."
Youngblut faces two federal weapons charges and potentially more as the investigation unfolds. Her legal representation has yet to comment on the case.
