China Becomes the World's Leading Shipbuilder, Raising US Concerns

A cross-country investigation has revealed a cult-like group known as "Zizians," led by Jack LaSota, also known as "Ziz," is connected to six deaths across three states, including a recent shooting involving a U.S. Border Patrol agent in Vermont. The FBI has identified members, including Teresa Youngblut, charged in the January 20th shooting of agent David Maland after a vehicle stop in Coventry, Vermont, where Youngblut reportedly opened fire (Associated Press).
LaSota, a former computer science intern at NASA, has evaded capture and is linked to various violent incidents since at least 2019, when she was arrested during a protest in California (Associated Press). Authorities found weapons and tactical gear in the vehicle associated with Youngblut and a deceased passenger (Associated Press). The group's activities and beliefs appear centered around a blend of anarchism and radical veganism, attracting vulnerable followers, with significant online influence reaching young people (San Francisco Chronicle). Following the investigations, several arrest warrants have been issued for LaSota, whose whereabouts remain unknown.