A massive manhunt is underway in Minnesota following a shocking outbreak of violence targeting state lawmakers over the weekend. The incident resulted in the death of a prominent legislator and her husband, while another senator and his wife were injured in what officials are calling “politically motivated” and “targeted” attacks.
Authorities are actively searching for Vance Luther Boelter, 57, who has been identified as the sole suspect in the shootings that unfolded at two separate residences north of Minneapolis early Saturday morning. The attacks have sent ripples of shock across the state and prompted increased security measures for public officials.
Tragic Loss of a Leader, Another Legislator Injured
State Representative Melissa Hortman, a 55-year-old Democrat who served as House Speaker Emerita and was in her 11th term, was tragically killed along with her husband, Mark, at their home in Brooklyn Park. Governor Tim Walz described Hortman as a “formidable public servant,” a “giant in Minnesota,” and a “fixture of the state Capitol” who served with “grace, compassion, and tirelessness.” Flags have been ordered to fly at half-staff in her honor. The Minnesota House of Representatives is now evenly divided following her death.
In a related incident in nearby Champlin, State Senator John Hoffman, 60, and his wife, Yvette, were also shot multiple times. They underwent surgery and are reported to be in stable condition. Governor Walz referred to the attack on Senator Hoffman as an “assassination attempt.”
Details of the Attacks and Suspect’s Actions
The first call came to police around 2:00 a.m. regarding the shooting of Senator Hoffman and his wife. Approximately 95 minutes later, at 3:35 a.m., officers checking on Representative Hortman at her home encountered the suspect. Authorities believe the suspect gained entry to the lawmakers’ homes by impersonating a police officer. At Hortman’s residence, the suspect was reportedly dressed like an officer, wearing a vest, badge, and carrying equipment like a Taser, and was coming out of the house when police arrived.
An exchange of gunfire occurred between the suspect and officers at Hortman’s home, but Boelter managed to escape on foot. The suspect’s vehicle, which resembled a police car and was equipped with emergency lights, was found in Hortman’s driveway.
Evidence Points to Targeted Violence
Investigators discovered crucial evidence in the suspect’s vehicle that strongly suggests the attacks were premeditated and politically motivated. A list containing nearly 70 names was recovered, reportedly including dozens of other Minnesota Democratic lawmakers, prominent figures like U.S. Senator Tina Smith, U.S. Representative Ilhan Omar, and Attorney General Keith Ellison, as well as abortion providers and pro-choice activists. A manifesto and “No Kings” fliers, associated with planned anti-Trump protests, were also found in the vehicle.
This discovery prompted alerts to be sent to individuals named on the list, and security has been increased for potentially at-risk officials. The finding of the protest fliers led to the cancellation of planned “No Kings” events in Minnesota and evacuation alerts in other states.
Statewide Manhunt and Official Response
An extensive manhunt involving hundreds of officers from local police, the State Bureau of Criminal Apprehension (BCA), the FBI, and the US Marshals is underway to locate Vance Boelter. The FBI is offering a reward of up to $50,000 for information leading to his apprehension.
Minnesota officials have unequivocally condemned the violence. Governor Walz stated, “We are not a country that settles our differences at gunpoint,” emphasizing Minnesota’s history of civil debate. He called it a “dark day” but vowed that fear and violence would not define the state’s path forward, assuring that all resources would be used to bring those responsible to justice. Political leaders across the country, including former President Trump and former Vice President Al Gore (for whom Hortman briefly worked), have also denounced the attacks.
Authorities are advising residents in the area to remain vigilant. The Hennepin County Sheriff’s Office has cautioned the public against opening their door to a lone police officer and advised calling 911 to verify an officer’s presence, as licensed officers are now working in pairs as a precaution. While a shelter-in-place order for Brooklyn Park was lifted, Governor Walz cautioned Minnesotans against attending political rallies until the suspect is apprehended.
The incident has highlighted growing concerns about political polarization and the potential for violence against public servants in the United States, with officials like Attorney General Keith Ellison calling these “the darkest days for Minnesota” and stressing that political violence is unacceptable.