Massive Search Launched for Minnesota Gunman in Deadly Ambush
Authorities in Minnesota are intensifying efforts to apprehend a man accused of fatally shooting a senior Democratic state legislator and her husband. The suspect, 57-year-old Vance Luther Boelter, is also suspected of wounding another lawmaker and their spouse in an attack that has been described as a politically motivated assassination.
Details of the Shooting and Suspect’s Escape
The shootings occurred in the Minneapolis suburb of Brooklyn Park, where Boelter, impersonating a police officer, opened fire on former Minnesota House Speaker Melissa Hortman and her husband Mark, killing both. Earlier, state Senator John Hoffman and his wife were shot and rushed to surgery. Officials remain cautiously optimistic about their recovery.
After the attacks, Boelter fled on foot following a gunfire exchange with responding officers. He abandoned a vehicle that resembled a police SUV. Inside the vehicle, investigators discovered a manifesto along with a list of about 70 names, including several politicians, abortion providers, and other institutions. Both the Hortmans and the Hoffmans were on this list.
Suspect Profile and Motivations
Authorities have labeled Boelter as armed and dangerous and believe he remains within the Minneapolis-St. Paul area. While it is still too early to determine a clear motive, the suspect’s online activity reveals ties to evangelical ministries and self-proclaimed security expertise with experience in conflict zones such as Gaza and Africa. Public records show he had previously worked in food service and was appointed to a Governor’s Workforce Development Board in 2016.
Neighbors recalled a chilling text message from Boelter hours before the shooting, in which he cryptically stated he "might be dead soon." This prompted an immediate call to police.
Political Climate and Reactions
The violence has rattled political circles nationwide, eliciting shock from both Democrats and Republicans. Minnesota Governor Tim Walz condemned the incident as an act of targeted political violence, emphasizing that America’s democracy depends on peaceful discourse, not violence.
The shootings come amid escalating tensions over divisive political rhetoric, heightened in part by recent congressional debates on immigration policies. The suspect's vehicle also contained flyers labeled "No Kings," though officials noted no direct ties to simultaneous nationwide protests opposing a planned military parade.
Former President Donald Trump expressed condolences and denounced the attack as unacceptable in America.
Law Enforcement Response and Ongoing Investigation
FBI released images of Boelter disguised in a police-like uniform and rubber mask, offering a reward of up to $50,000 for information leading to his arrest.
According to police, the suspect first targeted the Hoffmans around 2 a.m., then drove approximately five miles to the Hortmans’ home, where officers arriving on scene were immediately fired upon. A responsive exchange of gunfire ensued before Boelter escaped.
Growing Concern Over Political Violence in the U.S.
This attack adds to a growing list of politically charged violence across the United States, including prior assassination attempts and home invasions targeting public officials. The pattern has raised urgent questions about security and the deepening divisiveness in American politics.
Efforts to bring the suspect to justice continue amid widespread demands to curb extreme rhetoric and reinforce the foundations of peaceful political engagement.
