Manhunt Underway After Minnesota Lawmakers Targeted, One Killed in ‘Targeted Political Violence’
Manhunt Underway After Minnesota Lawmakers Targeted, One Killed in ‘Targeted Political Violence’
A massive manhunt is actively underway in Minnesota following a horrific incident on Saturday morning where two state lawmakers were targeted, resulting in the death of one, in what Governor Tim Walz has condemned as an “act of targeted political violence.”
Melissa Hortman, 55, a prominent Democratic House Speaker, and her husband were tragically killed in their Brooklyn Park home, a city located near Minneapolis. In a related attack, State Senator John Hoffman, 60, also a Democrat, and his wife were shot multiple times at their residence approximately 15km away. Senator Hoffman is currently stable after undergoing surgery.
Authorities have identified the suspect as Vance Luther Boelter, 57, who allegedly impersonated a police officer to gain entry to the victims’ homes, even driving a vehicle modified to resemble a police car. A substantial $50,000 reward has been offered for information leading to his arrest. Police exchanged gunfire with Boelter at Hortman’s home, but he managed to escape, abandoning his vehicle. The FBI, SWAT, and hundreds of officers are involved in the extensive search, warning residents to be cautious and only open their doors to two officers together.
Officials are investigating Boelter’s connection to the politicians, noting he previously served on the state’s workforce development board with Senator Hoffman. President Donald Trump has issued a statement condemning the “horrific violence,” while Governor Walz activated the State Emergency Operations Center, describing Saturday as a “dark day” for Minnesota and mourning the loss of Hortman, whom he called a “formidable public servant” and “dearest of friends.”
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