A tragic incident unfolded on Interstate 91 in Vermont on Monday, claiming the life of a U.S. Border Patrol agent. The agent, identified as 44-year-old David Maland, was fatally shot during a traffic stop near Newport, approximately 20 miles south of the U.S.-Canada border. The confrontation also resulted in the death of one suspect, while another was apprehended with injuries.
According to the Department of Homeland Security, the shootout occurred around 3:15 p.m. Acting DHS Secretary Benjamine Huffman issued a statement mourning the loss of the agent, emphasizing the daily risks faced by Border Patrol personnel in safeguarding the nation.
The image above shows the scene on southbound Route 91 near Newport, Vermont, where the incident took place. (Credit: David McGlynn for Fox News Digital)
Following the shootout, law enforcement employed remote-controlled robots to examine the scene, including a backpack and other equipment near the deceased suspect. The FBI's Albany branch is leading the investigation, and the immigration status of the suspects remains undisclosed.
A robotic device inspects a backpack near what appears to be a body on southbound Route 91. (Credit: David McGlynn for Fox News Digital)
Vermont State Police closed a section of I-91 near mile marker 168 for several hours, later reopening the northbound lane.
A drone and robot operate at the scene on southbound Route 91. (Credit: David McGlynn for Fox News Digital)
The incident occurred on the same day as President Trump's second inauguration, during which he reiterated his commitment to border security and law enforcement. Authorities have previously expressed concern about a rise in illegal crossings at both the northern and southern borders.
