Teresa Youngblut, a 21-year-old believed to be from Washington state, faces charges following an incident involving the assault of a United States Border Patrol agent. The United States Attorney’s Office for the District of Vermont announced that Youngblut has been charged with using a deadly weapon during the assault and discharging a firearm in relation to it. Her initial court appearance is yet to be scheduled.
The charging affidavit details that on January 20, 2025, a U.S. Border Patrol agent stopped a Toyota Prius on Interstate 91 in Coventry, Vermont. The vehicle was occupied by Youngblut and a German man whose immigration status was under scrutiny. They had previously attracted law enforcement attention due to concerns raised by a hotel employee about their tactical attire and possession of weapons.
During the traffic stop, both occupants were armed. Youngblut reportedly fired her handgun at least once towards the agents without warning while outside the vehicle. Her companion attempted to draw his firearm, prompting at least one agent to return fire. This exchange resulted in fatal injuries to Border Patrol Agent David Maland. The German man died at the scene, while Youngblut was hospitalized.
The Federal Bureau of Investigation leads the ongoing investigation with assistance from several agencies including Vermont State Police and Homeland Security Investigations.
Acting United States Attorney Michael P. Drescher commented on the incident: “The events leading to this prosecution tragically demonstrate how the men and women of law enforcement regularly put their lives on the line as they try to keep our communities and our country safe.” He praised the collaborative efforts of all involved agencies.
Craig Tremaroli from the FBI Albany Field Office remarked: “Agent Maland bravely served his country as a member of the United States Air Force...This arrest proves the FBI, together with our partners, will work diligently to ensure any individual who uses a firearm to assault such a public servant will be brought to justice.”
James M. Ferguson from ATF Boston Field Division stated: “The senseless and tragic killing of a United States Border Patrol agent is a stark reminder of the immense sacrifices law enforcement officers make to protect our nation.”
Chief U.S. Border Patrol Agent Robert Garcia expressed gratitude for law enforcement's response: “We appreciate all our law enforcement partners' response to this tragic event as we continue our mission of protecting this nation’s border and ensuring public safety.”
Youngblut remains presumed innocent until proven guilty in court. If convicted, she could face life imprisonment with a mandatory minimum sentence of 10 years based on federal guidelines.
Assistant United States Attorney Matthew Lasher is prosecuting the case while Youngblut is represented by the Office of the Federal Public Defender.