4 things to know about the murder of Border Patrol agent, Air Force vet David 'Chris' Maland in Vermont
Suspects reportedly linked to 'violent transgender commune'
2. Guns, tactical gear, ammo found in suspects’ vehicle; weapon linked to Calif. homicide investigation
Law enforcement sources cited by The Associated Press said investigators had been performing “periodic surveillance” of Youngblut and Bauckholt since Jan. 14 after an employee at a hotel where they were staying reported concerns after seeing Youngblut carrying a gun and she and Bauckholt wearing black tactical gear, according to an affidavit.
When authorities attempted to question the duo, they said they were in the area to buy property but declined to answer any additional questions, according to the FBI.
A search of the Prius involved in the shooting uncovered tactical gear, including a ballistic helmet, night-vision goggles, two full-face respirators, handheld radios, ammunition and shooting range targets. A dozen electronic devices and a journal were also found, according to the AP.
Federal prosecutors also said the gun used by Youngblut and one that Bauckholt was carrying were purchased by a third person in Vermont in February 2024. The buyer is a person of interest in a double homicide investigation in Pennsylvania, prosecutors said.
