A U.S. Border Patrol agent was fatally shot Monday afternoon in Vermont near the Canadian border, in an incident that also left a suspect dead and another injured. The shooting occurred on Interstate 91 in Coventry, approximately 20 miles south of the border, according to an announcement from the AP News.

The FBI is actively investigating the shooting as an alleged assault on a federal officer. Benjamine Huffman, acting secretary of the Department of Homeland Security, confirmed the agent's death in a statement, emphasizing the daily risks faced by Border Patrol agents in safeguarding the nation: “Every single day, our Border Patrol agents put themselves in harm’s way so that Americans and our homeland are safe and secure,” he noted.

The fatal incident was reported around 3:15 p.m. on Monday, and according to various sources, the area was temporarily closed to traffic as law enforcement conducted their investigation. The agent, who had not been publicly identified, was part of the U.S. Customs and Border Protection's Swanton Sector, which oversees parts of Vermont, New York, and New Hampshire.

Vermont lawmakers made a joint statement expressing their condolences to the officer’s family, recognizing the dedication and sacrifices made by Border Patrol agents. Senators Bernie Sanders and Peter Welch, along with Representative Becca Balint, stated that these agents “deserve our full support in terms of staffing, pay, and working conditions.” They further pledged their commitment to ensuring that agents have all necessary resources to effectively perform their critical functions.Source

The investigation continues as officials have assured the public that there is no ongoing threat related to the incident. A spokesperson indicated that more information will be released as it becomes available. This occurrence underscores the ongoing challenges faced by federal law enforcement at the borders and the risks associated with their duties.

For further details, please visit the Hill or USA Today.