Additional Coverage:
- German national suspect identified in deadly shooting of US Border Patrol agent in Vermont (foxnews.com)
Newport, VT (Jan. 21, 2025) — A U.S.
Border Patrol agent was killed during a traffic stop on Interstate 91 yesterday. The agent has been identified as 44-year-old David “Chris” Maland.
The FBI has confirmed that a German national, legally in the U.S. on a visa, is suspected in the shooting.
The incident occurred between Newport and Orleans, Vermont. Maland, an Air Force veteran, was shot during the stop. The FBI expressed their condolences, acknowledging the heartbreak felt by fellow agents.
Two suspects were in the vehicle. One is deceased, and the other is hospitalized with injuries.
The FBI is actively investigating with assistance from federal, state, and local authorities. They have deployed numerous resources to the scene, including their Evidence Response Team, victim services, and digital forensics experts.
Authorities were observed using a robotic device to examine a backpack near a body at the scene last night.
The Border Patrol Union expressed condolences, offering prayers for the fallen agent’s family, friends, and colleagues.
Vermont Senators Bernie Sanders and Peter Welch, along with Representative Becca Balint, also issued statements of condolence. They emphasized the importance of supporting border patrol agents and ensuring they have the necessary resources.
This tragic incident comes just hours after President Trump’s second inauguration, during which he highlighted border security and support for law enforcement.