15-06-2025

Minnesota Lawmakers Targeted by Suspect Vance Boelter

Date: 15-06-2025
Sources: bbc.com: 1 | nytimes.com: 1 | scmp.com: 1
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Source: scmp.com

Image content: The image depicts a military operation in a residential area, with a tan-colored armored vehicle at its center. The vehicle is positioned on a street, surrounded by several individuals in camouflage uniforms and helmets, some of whom are armed. **Key Elements:** * **Armored Vehicle:** A tan-colored armored vehicle is prominently featured in the foreground, with a soldier standing on top, holding a gun. * **Military Personnel:** Several individuals in camouflage uniforms and helmets are present around the vehicle, some carrying guns or other equipment. * **Police Officer and Dog:** A police officer, accompanied by a dog on a leash, is visible to the left of the vehicle. * **Residential Background:** The scene is set

Summary

Minnesota Democratic lawmakers Melissa Hortman and John Hoffman were shot at their homes by Vance Luther Boelter, a suspect impersonating an officer. Hortman and her husband were killed, while Hoffman and his wife were wounded but receiving treatment. Boelter remains at large with a $50,000 reward offered for information on his capture.

Key Points

  • Vance Luther Boelter, disguised as an officer, shot Minnesota lawmakers Melissa Hortman and John Hoffman at their residences, killing Hortman and her husband.
  • A $50,000 reward is being offered for Boelter's capture as he is still at large after abandoning his police-like SUV.
  • The investigation found Boelter had links to evangelical ministries, ran a private security company, and had a history of financial struggles and strong anti-abortion sentiments.

Articles in this Cluster

Minnesota lawmakers Melissa Hortman and John Hoffman targeted by gunman, suspect at largeBritish Broadcasting CorporationBritish Broadcasting Corporation

A manhunt is underway in the state after two Democratic lawmakers, Melissa Hortman and John Hoffman, were targeted in separate incidents. Hortman, the former Speaker of the House, and her husband were shot and killed at their residence, and a police chase ensued, during which the suspect, identified as 57-year-old Vance Luther Boelter, escaped. Boelter, impersonating an officer with a police-like vehicle, also attacked Hoffman and his wife at their residence about 9 miles from Hortman's, leaving them both shot but Hoffman is out of surgery and stable. Authorities believe Boelter is on the run on foot after abandoning his vehicle, and a $50,000 reward is offered for information about his whereabouts.

What We Know About the Suspect in the Minnesota Lawmakers Shootings - The New York Times

Vance Boelter, a 57-year-old man suspected of shooting two Democratic Minnesota state lawmakers, had served on a state board with one of the victims, Senator John Hoffman. Boelter was appointed to the Workforce Development Board multiple times by Democratic governors, including Mark Dayton and Tim Walz. The suspect disguised himself as a police officer and targeted the homes of lawmakers in Minneapolis suburbs, wounding Hoffman and his wife, and fatally shooting Representative Melissa Hortman and her husband. A list found with the suspect's information included around 70 potential targets, mostly Democrats, as well as doctors, community leaders, and health care centers. Boelter's friend described him as a Christian who strongly opposed abortion and had been experiencing financial and mental health challenges. Boelter and his wife run a private security company that offers armed guards and uses Ford Explorer SUVs, similar to those used by police departments. The suspect remains on the run.

Suspect in Minnesota lawmaker Melissa Hortman’s shooting texted friend he ‘might be dead soon’ | South China Morning Post

Vance Luther Boelter, 57, is being sought by police for the killing of Minnesota state lawmaker Melissa Hortman and her husband, and the shooting of state Senator John Hoffman and his wife. Boelter had links to evangelical ministries and claimed online to be a security expert with experience in the Gaza Strip and Africa. He texted a friend, David Carlson, saying "he might be dead soon" on the morning of the shooting, prompting Carlson to call the police. A manhunt is underway, with the FBI offering a $50,000 reward for information leading to Boelter's arrest.