In a shocking turn of events, two members of a violent, fringe vegan cult have been arrested in connection with a series of murders, including the chilling killing of U.S. Border Patrol Agent David “Chris” Maland.
Jack “Ziz” LaSota, 34, and Michelle Zajko, 32, were taken into custody on February 16 in Frostburg, Maryland, after being charged with multiple offenses, including firearm possession and obstruction. LaSota and Zajko are both linked to the radical group “Zizians,” which espouses anarchist ideals, artificial intelligence theories, and a militant form of veganism.
Authorities believe the Zizians were behind the January 20 shooting of Agent Maland, who was killed during a traffic stop near the Canada-Vermont border. The cult is also tied to at least five other homicides across Vermont, Pennsylvania, and California.
Investigators revealed that Zajko purchased firearms used in Maland’s murder, and she is also a person of interest in additional killings. A nationwide manhunt for her followed the agent’s death, leading to her arrest.
LaSota, Zajko, and their associates believed that violence could be justified in their fight against societal norms, according to former members. The group’s radical beliefs have left investigators reeling as they piece together their involvement in these deadly crimes.
Federal law enforcement is working in coordination with local authorities to uncover the full extent of the group’s violent activities. This is a developing story—stay with us for more updates.
