Moreover, officials are currently probing Youngblut’s possible involvement in a homicide case in California. Authorities investigating the California incident have formally charged Max Snyder, aged 22, with the murder of an individual who had been a witness to an attack in Vallejo, California, back in 2022. It is worth noting that Snyder and Youngblut obtained a marriage license in Seattle the previous year, although it remains unclear whether they proceeded with the marriage. The Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) has acknowledged the connections in question but has refrained from making any public disclosures regarding the specifics known to investigators.
Sarah Ruane, a spokesperson for the FBI’s Albany, New York, office, mentioned in a statement, “As indicated in court proceedings and filings, Teresa Youngblut is believed to be associated with other individuals who are suspected of engaging in violent activities across multiple states, including Pennsylvania and California.” Ruane further emphasized that the FBI is actively collaborating with various law enforcement agencies to facilitate the sharing of information related to any case details and to diligently pursue all leads in investigating these linkages.
Per court documents, the violent clash between Youngblut and Border Patrol agents on January 20 was the culmination of a week-long surveillance operation by federal authorities, prompted by reports of suspicious behavior exhibited by Youngblut and Bauckholt as they traversed rural areas in northern Vermont. Their conspicuous attire, which included tactical-style gear and openly carried firearms (permissible under Vermont law but deemed unusual), drew law enforcement’s attention. Despite being approached by officers, Youngblut and Bauckholt opted not to engage in conversation, prompting agents to tail them, as detailed in an affidavit. Additionally, investigators mistook Bauckholt’s visa status, presuming it had expired.
Based on court records and FBI affidavits, it was revealed that, following the Border Patrol agents’ halt of the Toyota Prius driven by Youngblut, she swiftly discharged a firearm, firing at least two shots. In response, Bauckholt, who was armed as well, fired a shot but was ultimately struck. Bauckholt succumbed to his injuries at the scene, while Maland, the Border Patrol agent, passed away at a nearby medical facility.
This article was originally published on USA TODAY: Grand jury indicts woman accused in Vermont Border Patrol shooting.
