A tragic shooting in the Northeast Kingdom town of Coventry, Vermont, has left two people dead, including a U.S. Border Patrol agent, and another individual injured and in custody. The heartbreaking incident occurred on Interstate 91 on Monday afternoon, roughly 10 miles south of the Canadian border.
The U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) confirmed that the fallen agent was “killed in the line of duty” while serving in the Swanton Sector, which oversees parts of the Canadian border stretching from upstate New York through Vermont and New Hampshire. Acting Secretary of Homeland Security Benjamine Huffman expressed his sorrow, saying, “Our Border Patrol agents risk their lives daily to keep our homeland safe. My prayers and deepest condolences go out to the Agent’s family, loved ones, and colleagues.”
Federal and state authorities have released limited details about the incident. According to the FBI, there is no ongoing threat to the public. The agency stated that it is investigating “an alleged assault on a federal officer” related to the shooting.
The names of the victims and the individual in custody have not yet been released. Vermont State Police, U.S. Border Patrol, and the FBI are collaborating on the investigation, gathering evidence at the scene.
Interstate 91, where the tragic events unfolded, was temporarily closed between Exit 27 in Newport and Exit 26 in Orleans on Monday. While northbound traffic resumed around 5 p.m., southbound lanes remain closed due to ongoing investigative activity.
This devastating loss underscores the risks faced by those in law enforcement and border protection. As the investigation continues, the community mourns the loss of a dedicated public servant whose commitment to protecting the nation ended in tragedy. Further updates are expected as authorities release more details about the case.
