Manhunt Ends in Arrest After Fatal Minnesota Lawmaker Shootings
In a chilling act described as a "politically motivated assassination," Vance Boelter, 57, was arrested following a massive two-day manhunt. Boelter allegedly shot and killed Melissa Hortman, the leading Democrat in the Minnesota House, and her husband, Mark, at their home on Saturday. Additionally, state Senator John Hoffman and his wife Yvette were shot and wounded at their residence.
Details of the Attack and Arrest
According to authorities, Boelter masqueraded as a police officer during the attacks, donning an officer’s uniform and driving a Ford SUV equipped with police-style lights. When law enforcement confronted him at the Hortman residence, Boelter fled on foot, prompting the state’s largest manhunt in history. Residents were advised to remain indoors while search efforts intensified.
Boelter was eventually located near his home in Green Isle after over 20 SWAT teams combed the area with the assistance of surveillance aircraft. Armed at the time, he surrendered peacefully without any shots fired.
Weapons and Evidence Recovered
- Three AK-47 assault rifles
- One 9-mm handgun
- A list containing names and addresses of other public officials
The discovery of the weapons and target list after a vehicle search added to the gravity of the case.
Charges and Legal Proceedings
Boelter now faces two counts of second-degree murder and two counts of attempted second-degree murder. According to the criminal complaint, three of these charges carry maximum sentences of up to 40 years in prison. Officers confirmed Boelter was impersonating law enforcement during the shootings.
Governor’s Response and Community Impact
Governor Tim Walz condemned the attacks, calling for unity and a recommitment to core American values in the face of rising political violence. He noted that Senator Hoffman, who was hit by nine bullets, is recovering well after his final surgery.
"One man's unthinkable actions have altered the state of Minnesota," Walz stated during a press briefing. He emphasized that violence can never be the way to resolve political differences.
Background and Motive Under Investigation
Boelter reportedly has affiliations with evangelical ministries and claims backgrounds in security work across the Gaza Strip and Africa, based on online posts and public records. Authorities are now focusing efforts on uncovering the exact motives behind these attacks.
Context of Rising Political Violence
This tragic event adds to a growing list of violent political incidents in the United States, which have included attacks against high-profile figures such as a 2022 assault on the husband of a former Democratic House Speaker, an assassination attempt against a former president in 2024, and an arson attack on a state governor earlier this year.
