After two days of fear and uncertainty, 57-year-old Vance Boelter has been captured by authorities in connection with the shootings of four people—two of them prominent Minnesota lawmakers. What began as a chilling act of violence early Friday morning ended late Sunday night with Boelter’s quiet surrender near his home in Green Isle.
A Violent Morning That Shocked Minnesota
Just after 2 a.m. on Friday, June 14, State Senator John Hoffman and his wife Yvette were shot inside their Champlin home. The shooter, pretending to be a police officer, forced his way in before opening fire. Both were hit multiple times but survived after undergoing emergency surgeries.
Not long after, officers were called to check on former House Speaker Melissa Hortman’s home in Brooklyn Park. When police arrived, they found a suspicious SUV with flashing lights, resembling a police vehicle. As they moved in, the shooter fired again—this time fatally. Hortman and her husband Mark were both killed.
Investigators quickly linked the two attacks and identified Boelter as the suspect. What followed was one of the largest manhunts in Minnesota’s history.
The Hunt for Boelter
Boelter’s SUV, the same one seen outside Hortman’s home, was found abandoned. Inside, investigators made a disturbing discovery—a hand-written list of nearly 70 names. Many on the list were Democratic lawmakers and abortion rights advocates. Authorities described it as a “manifesto.”
With a growing fear that Boelter was planning further attacks, law enforcement moved quickly. More than 100 officers, SWAT teams, helicopters, drones, and the FBI were involved. A shelter-in-place order was issued in Brooklyn Park. Police urged the public to be cautious, especially if approached by anyone claiming to be an officer.
After nearly 43 hours on the run, Boelter was spotted late Sunday near his rural home. Officers surrounded the area. Armed but cooperative, Boelter crawled toward police and gave himself up without a fight.
Who Is Vance Boelter?
Boelter isn’t a household name, but his online footprint paints a picture. He’s a self-described born-again Christian, pro-Trump supporter, and business advocate. He once claimed to have worked in private security, though no military or law enforcement background has been verified.
Authorities believe his motive was politically driven, possibly tied to anti-abortion views. Though there’s no clear evidence he was linked to an extremist group, the list of political targets suggests Boelter may have planned more violence.
What Comes Next
Boelter has been charged with two counts of second-degree murder and two counts of attempted murder. Federal charges could be on the horizon. The FBI is still going through evidence and tracking his digital communications.
Governor Tim Walz responded to the attacks by calling them “politically motivated assassinations,” saying violence like this threatens the foundations of democracy.
Lawmakers and officials are now pushing for better protection for public servants, especially as political tensions continue to rise nationwide.
A Community Grieving, a State on Alert
The past weekend has left Minnesota shaken. Melissa Hortman was not only a political leader but a mentor and friend to many. Her death has left a hole in the state’s leadership. Senator Hoffman and his wife remain in critical care, but doctors say they’re showing signs of improvement.
People across the state have gathered for vigils, leaving flowers and candles at the Capitol. Flags are flying at half-staff. Residents are expressing grief, frustration, and a renewed call for unity.
In the end, Boelter’s arrest brings a degree of closure—but not peace. Minnesota is now facing tough questions about political violence, security, and the health of public discourse in America.
