
A nationwide manhunt is underway for Michelle Zajko, a 32-year-old woman suspected of supplying weapons used in the killing of a Vermont Border Patrol agent and linked to multiple murders across states.
Key Takeaways
- Michelle Zajko is wanted in connection with the shooting death of Border Patrol agent David Maland and multiple homicides.
- Zajko is considered “armed and dangerous” and is being sought by law enforcement in several states.
- The investigation spans multiple states and involves other suspects, including Teresa Youngblut, a member of the “Zizians” group.
- Zajko is linked to murders in California and Pennsylvania, including the deaths of her own parents.
- The case reveals a complex web of criminal activities challenging law enforcement efforts.
Nationwide Search for Zajko Intensifies
Federal authorities have launched a nationwide manhunt for Michelle J. Zajko, a 32-year-old woman suspected of purchasing handguns used in the killing of U.S. Border Patrol agent David “Chris” Maland near the Canada-Vermont border. Zajko is considered “armed and dangerous” and is being sought by law enforcement agencies across several states.
BREAKING: Law enforcement has released the photo of Michelle Jacqueline "Jamie" Zajko, an armed and dangerous member of the trans terror cult linked to multiple killings.
Zajko, who is trans nonbinary, allegedly supplied the weapons to the trans duo who killed the Border Patrol… pic.twitter.com/Z92Yoryu6U
— Andy Ngo (@MrAndyNgo) January 31, 2025
The shooting occurred during a routine traffic stop for an immigration inspection. Agent Maland, a Minnesota native and U.S. Air Force veteran with 15 years of federal government service, was fatally shot in the line of duty. The incident has sent shockwaves through law enforcement communities and border regions.
Complex Web of Criminal Allegations
The investigation has revealed a complex network of criminal activities spanning multiple states. Zajko is not only connected to the Border Patrol agent’s murder but is also a “person of interest” in a double murder in Pennsylvania and another murder in California. These allegations paint a picture of a dangerous individual with potential ties to organized crime.
“As stated in open court and in court filings, Teresa Youngblut is believed to have associations with other individuals suspected of violent acts in multiple states, to include Pennsylvania and California. The FBI is coordinating information sharing on any case related details with our partners from various law enforcement agencies to effectively follow every lead and aggressively investigate these connections,” The FBI stated.
The FBI is coordinating with various law enforcement agencies to investigate connections related to Youngblut and other violent acts in multiple states. This collaborative effort underscores the severity and complexity of the case, which has expanded beyond state borders.
Other Suspects and the “Zizians” Connection
The investigation has also led to the arrest of Teresa Youngblut, 21, who has been charged with assault on a federal law enforcement officer. Youngblut is reportedly part of a group called “Zizians,” described as “allegedly part of a bizarre vegan cult.” This revelation adds another layer of intrigue to the already complex case.
Felix Bauckholt, a German citizen with an expired visa, was also involved in the incident that led to Agent Maland’s death. Bauckholt, who was armed, was killed by federal agents during the confrontation. The vehicle involved in the shooting was a blue 2015 Toyota Prius with a North Carolina license plate, registered to Bauckholt.
Ongoing Investigation and Law Enforcement Response
The U.S. Attorney’s Office in Vermont has remained tight-lipped about the case, refraining from public comments. However, the FBI’s office in Albany has emphasized the gravity of the situation and the coordinated efforts to bring those responsible to justice.
As the manhunt for Michelle Zajko continues, law enforcement agencies are urging the public to remain vigilant and report any information that could lead to her apprehension. The case serves as a stark reminder of the dangers faced by border patrol agents and the complex challenges posed by cross-state criminal activities.
Sources:
Manhunt underway for woman linked to killing of Vermont Border Patrol agent: report
Manhunt underway for woman linked to killing of Vermont Border Patrol agent: report