A two-day manhunt in Minnesota ended with the arrest of 57-year-old Vance Boelter, accused of fatally shooting Democratic state lawmaker Melissa Hortman and her husband, Mark, in what Governor Tim Walz called a “politically motivated assassination.” Boelter also allegedly wounded state Senator John Hoffman and his wife, Yvette, at their nearby home.
Authorities say Boelter posed as a police officer, wearing a uniform and driving a Ford SUV with police-style lights. The shootings triggered the largest manhunt in Minnesota’s history, involving over 20 SWAT teams and surveillance aircraft. Boelter was apprehended in Green Isle without incident, despite being armed. “The suspect crawled to law enforcement teams and was placed under arrest,” said Lt. Col. Jeremy Geiger of the Minnesota State Patrol.
A search of Boelter’s vehicle revealed three AK-47 rifles, a 9mm handgun, and a list of public officials’ names and addresses, according to a Hennepin County criminal complaint. Boelter now faces two counts of second-degree murder and two counts of attempted murder, each carrying potential 40-year sentences.
Governor Walz emphasized the seriousness of the act, urging unity and denouncing violence as a means of political expression. “This cannot be the norm,” he said. Senator Hoffman, who was struck by nine bullets, is reportedly recovering after surgery.
Boelter, who has claimed ties to evangelical ministries and security work abroad, fled the scene on foot after the killings. Law enforcement officials are now focusing on understanding his motive.
This tragedy follows a series of violent attacks on political figures in the U.S., highlighting growing concerns over politically driven violence in the country.