BROOKLYN PARK, Minn. — After nearly two days on the run, Vance Boelter was taken into custody Sunday evening, ending a statewide manhunt following the deadly shootings of Minnesota lawmaker Melissa Hortman and her husband Mark, as well as the wounding of Senator John Hoffman and his wife Yvette.
Boelter, 57, faces multiple charges, including two counts of second-degree murder and two counts of attempted second-degree murder related to the attacks on the Democratic leaders.
The violence began early Saturday morning in Champlin, where the Hoffmans were attacked. Shortly afterward, Brooklyn Park police responded to the Hortman home, where officers witnessed Boelter shooting Mark Hortman through an open door. A brief gunfight ensued before Boelter fled inside the home and escaped.
Authorities located a vehicle connected to Boelter in rural Sibley County, near his residence in Green Isle. Law enforcement recovered a cowboy hat believed to belong to Boelter and evidence relevant to the case. The suspect had disguised himself as a police officer, including altering a vehicle to look like a police car.
Over 100 officers, including SWAT and FBI teams, conducted the extensive search. The FBI offered a $50,000 reward for information leading to Boelter’s arrest. The investigation revealed a notebook with a list of about 70 prominent lawmakers and community leaders, including abortion rights advocates, found in the fake police vehicle.
Boelter, a former political appointee, served on a state workforce board with Hoffman, though their relationship remains unclear. Before the shootings, Boelter sent texts apologizing to friends and indicating he might die soon.
The attacks have deeply shaken Minnesota and highlighted ongoing tensions around political violence. Memorials honoring Melissa and Mark Hortman have appeared at the State Capitol, where she was recognized as a powerful and influential leader, notably championing abortion rights protections.
Senator Amy Klobuchar shared an update from Yvette Hoffman, confirming both she and her husband are recovering after multiple gunshot wounds.
Governor Tim Walz called Melissa Hortman “the most consequential Speaker in state history,” praising her leadership and commitment to public service.
The Hortmans leave behind two adult children, while the Hoffmans have one adult daughter. Authorities continue to investigate the motive behind the shootings.
