Manhunt Ends in Minnesota After Deadly Attack on Lawmakers: Suspect in Custody
BROOKLYN PARK, MINNESOTA — A two-day manhunt across Minnesota came to an end Sunday evening with the arrest of Vance Boelter, the man suspected of carrying out a deadly and politically motivated shooting spree that has left one prominent lawmaker dead, another gravely wounded, and the state reeling.
Minnesota Governor Tim Walz announced the arrest at a press conference late Sunday. “After a two-day manhunt, two sleepless nights, law enforcement have apprehended Vance Boelter,” Walz said. “One man’s unthinkable actions have altered the state of Minnesota. This cannot become the norm.”
Authorities say Boelter, allegedly posing as a police officer, entered the Brooklyn Park home of former Democratic House Speaker Melissa Hortman early Saturday and fatally shot both Hortman and her husband, Mark. The shooter fled the scene on foot after being confronted by police, leaving behind a car, a hat, and other personal items later linked to him.
Shortly thereafter, Boelter is believed to have targeted Senator John Hoffman, a Democratic lawmaker known for his stance on abortion rights. The senator and his wife, Yvette Hoffman, were shot in their home just nine miles away from the Hortman residence. Senator Hoffman was struck nine times and underwent emergency surgery. Both he and his wife survived the attack.
“We are both incredibly lucky to be alive,” Yvette Hoffman wrote in a message shared with Democratic Senator Amy Klobuchar and posted to social media.
Suspect’s Background and Possible Motive
Boelter, whose age has not yet been confirmed, was described by friends and family as deeply religious and an attendee of Donald Trump campaign rallies. Law enforcement officials discovered in his abandoned car fliers for a “No Kings” rally—a fringe anti-government movement—as well as a notebook listing the names of lawmakers, abortion rights advocates, and healthcare officials.
Both Hortman and Hoffman were vocal supporters of abortion rights in the Minnesota legislature, prompting growing speculation that the killings were politically motivated. Governor Walz has called the attack a “politically motivated assassination.”
Investigators say Boelter had no known criminal record and had not previously issued any public threats, although the materials found in his possession suggest premeditated intent. Authorities are now examining his digital and social media activity for signs of radicalization.
Community in Shock, Leaders Call for Unity
Superintendent Drew Evans of the Minnesota Bureau of Criminal Apprehension cautioned the public against seeking quick answers. “We often want easy answers for complex problems. Those answers will come as we complete the full picture of our investigation.”
At Sunday’s press conference, Governor Walz urged Minnesotans and Americans alike to reject violence as a political tool.
“This cannot be the way we deal with political differences,” Walz said. “Now is the time for us to recommit to the core values of this country.”
Boelter is currently in custody and expected to face charges for multiple counts of first-degree murder and attempted murder. Further updates on Senator Hoffman’s condition are expected in the coming days.
Developing Story
This is a developing story. More information will be released as the investigation continues.
