Suspect Apprehended After Targeted Attacks on Minnesota Lawmakers
A large-scale manhunt concluded Sunday evening with the capture of Vance Luther Boelter, the suspect accused of a violent spree that left a Minnesota state lawmaker and her husband dead and severely injured another lawmaker and his wife. The attacks, described by authorities as targeted political violence, sent shockwaves through Minnesota and beyond.
New photos emerging from the scene reveal the dramatic extent of the damage at the home of deceased Minnesota House Speaker Melissa Hortman and her husband, Mark Hortman, in Brooklyn Park. The images show gaping holes and boarded-up windows, grim evidence of the early Saturday morning shooting that tragically claimed their lives.
Meanwhile, State Senator John Hoffman and his wife, Yvette Hoffman, also Democrats, were shot and injured in their nearby Champlin home during the same series of attacks. They are currently recovering after suffering multiple gunshot wounds.
Intense Manhunt Leads to Suspect’s Capture
The search for Boelter, 57, spanned nearly two days and involved a massive coordinated effort by federal, state, and local law enforcement, including the FBI, ATF, State Patrol, and numerous sheriff’s offices and SWAT teams. Authorities focused their search on rural Sibley County after Boelter’s abandoned vehicle was located there on Sunday morning near Faxon Township.
The discovery of the vehicle prompted a large perimeter search utilizing K-9 units, air support including helicopters and drones, and infrared technology. Hundreds of tips were received as the state remained on edge. The intensive search efforts paid off Sunday evening when a Sibley County resident’s trail camera captured an image consistent with Boelter. Officers quickly established a perimeter in the wooded rural area. Boelter was subsequently located and, after attempting to evade capture by crawling in ditches, surrendered peacefully to officers in the woods. Authorities confirmed he was armed at the time of his apprehension.
The FBI had added Boelter to its most wanted list and offered a reward of up to $50,000 for information leading to his arrest and conviction, calling the shootings a “deliberate and violent attack on public servants and their families.”
Details Emerge About the Attacks and Alleged Motive
According to a criminal complaint unsealed after his arrest, the attacks began early Saturday morning at the Champlin home of Senator Hoffman. Surveillance footage reportedly shows Boelter approaching the door shortly after 2 a.m., wearing a mask, a police vest and badge, and holding a gun, appearing to impersonate law enforcement. The Hoffmans’ adult daughter called 911 after her parents were shot.
After learning a lawmaker had been targeted, police in nearby Brooklyn Park proactively went to check on the Hortmans. They arrived around 3:35 a.m. to find Boelter’s vehicle at the residence. An officer witnessed Boelter shoot Mark Hortman through an open door before an exchange of gunfire occurred. Boelter then reportedly fled inside the Hortmans’ home before escaping the scene. Melissa Hortman was found dead inside. Authorities believe the quick response by Brooklyn Park police likely prevented further violence.
Investigators recovered key evidence from Boelter’s abandoned vehicle, including three AK-47 assault rifles, a 9mm handgun, and a ballistic vest. Crucially, a list containing the names of 50 to 70 individuals and businesses was found, along with an alleged “manifesto” or notebook. Sources familiar with the investigation indicate the list included numerous politicians (many identified as outspoken supporters of abortion rights), community leaders, and Planned Parenthood locations. Victims John Hoffman and Melissa Hortman were reportedly among the names listed. This evidence strongly supports the authorities’ assessment that the attacks were politically motivated and targeted.
Survivors’ Condition and Tributes to the Victims
Senator John Hoffman and his wife, Yvette, are recovering after suffering severe injuries. In a text message shared by Senator Amy Klobuchar, Yvette Hoffman revealed the extent of their injuries, stating John was shot nine times and she was shot eight. She described them both as “incredibly lucky to be alive” but noted that John was undergoing multiple surgeries. They are reportedly stable.
The Hoffmans expressed their devastation over the loss of Melissa and Mark Hortman, adding, “There is never a place for this kind of political hate.”
Tributes have poured in for Melissa Hortman, who served as Minnesota House Speaker from 2019 to 2025. Remembered as a dedicated public servant and effective leader, Governor Tim Walz called her the “core of who our values were” and the “most consequential speaker in state history.” Memorials featuring flowers, candles, and notes have been placed at the Minnesota State Capitol in her honor.
The Suspect’s Background and Broader Concerns
Details about Vance Boelter’s background have also emerged. While some who knew him described him differently, a friend and roommate mentioned he was experiencing mental health and financial difficulties following failed business ventures. Authorities have warned the public not to approach Boelter, describing him as dangerous and “clearly off balance” based on his writings and statements.
The tragic events have heightened concerns about the safety of elected officials nationwide amidst deep political divisions. The incident underscores the growing threats faced by public servants and has prompted discussions about security measures for lawmakers both in Washington D.C. and in their home districts.
Vance Boelter has been charged with two counts of second-degree murder and two counts of second-degree attempted murder. He was booked into the Hennepin County Jail following his apprehension. Authorities continue to investigate whether Boelter acted alone or was part of a broader network.