U.S. Border Patrol Agent Killed in Traffic Stop Near Vermont-Canada Border
A U.S. Border Patrol agent, David “Chris” Maland, was killed on Monday during a traffic stop on Interstate 91 near the Vermont-Canada border. The 44-year-old agent was struck by gunfire and pronounced dead at the scene. The suspect, a German national in the U.S. on a current visa, was taken into federal custody and is being treated at a hospital.
Maland, a Minnesota native and U.S. Air Force veteran, had a long history of public service. He worked as a Border Patrol agent for 15 years, including a stint as a K-9 handler and previously serving at the U.S. Customs and Border Protection’s Newport Station. Additionally, he worked as security at the Pentagon during the 9/11 attacks.
His family described him as a “devoted agent” who “served with honor and bravery” and had a “tremendous respect and pride for the work he did; he truly embodied service over self.”
The shooting temporarily closed part of Interstate 91 and an investigation into the incident is ongoing. The FBI, along with state and local authorities, are working together to determine the circumstances surrounding the shooting.
The U.S. Governor, Phil Scott, extended his condolences to Maland’s family and colleagues, while Democratic Senators Bernie Sanders, Peter Welch, and Representative Becca Balint also offered their support. The incident is a sobering reminder of the dangers faced by law enforcement officials and the need for increased support and resources for their work.
