Radical cult implicated in fatal shooting of U.S. Border Patrol Agent David Maland

In a tragic incident on January 20, 2025, U.S. Border Patrol Agent, David Maland, was fatally shot during a traffic stop on Interstate 91 near Coventry, Vermont. The assailants, identified as Teresa "Milo" Consuelo Youngblut and Felix "Ophelia" Bauckholt, are believed to be members of a radical leftist trans militant cult known as the "Zizians." This group, led by Jack "Ziz" LaSota, comprises highly educated, trans vegan "rationalists" with fringe beliefs about transhumanism and animal rights.

The confrontation occurred when Agent Maland initiated a traffic stop involving Youngblut and Bauckholt. A firefight ensued, resulting in the deaths of both Maland and Bauckholt, while Youngblut sustained injuries and was subsequently taken into federal custody. Investigations have revealed that the firearms used in the attack were traced back to Michelle Jacqueline Zajko, who is currently the subject of a national manhunt and is considered "armed and dangerous." Zajko is linked to multiple murders across the country, including the January 2023 killings of her parents in Pennsylvania.

Zizian Cult's Radical Beliefs and Activities

The "Zizians" are characterized by their radical ideologies, blending transhumanism, veganism, and anarchist tactics. Members often engage in violent activities to further their beliefs, which include extreme views on animal rights and the rejection of societal norms. The cult's leader, Jack "Ziz" LaSota, has been instrumental in shaping these doctrines, attracting individuals who are disillusioned with mainstream society.

The death of Agent Maland has sent shockwaves through the law enforcement community and the public. Tributes have poured in from colleagues and officials, highlighting Maland's dedication and service. This incident has also sparked discussions about the challenges faced by border patrol agents and the threats posed by radicalized groups operating within the country.

In response to these events, federal and state agencies are collaborating to dismantle the "Zizian" network and prevent further acts of violence. This includes increased surveillance, intelligence sharing, and community outreach to identify and mitigate potential threats. The situation remains fluid, with authorities urging the public to remain vigilant and report any suspicious activities.

More about the investigations

Investigators found two pistols, ammunition clips, night-vision goggles, two full-face respirators, a ballistic helmet, 48 rounds of hollow-point ammunition, shooting range targets, interstate lodging information, two-way radios and a dozen electronic devices, some of which were wrapped in foil at their Airbnb rentals in North Carolina, where they lived before going to Vermont.

The property owner says Youngblut parked a new box truck on his property, where they spent much of their time during the day, along with other individuals in black clothing. After the elderly witness murder was announced earlier this month, an X account that has expressed support of the Vallejo, California, trans defendants wrote: “Ladies and gentlemen, we got him.”