Suspect in Minnesota Lawmaker Shootings Apprehended
The manhunt for 57-year-old Vance Boelter has ended. CNN reports that Boelter, accused of a politically motivated shooting spree that left Minnesota Rep. Melissa Hortman and her husband Mark Hortman dead, was captured Sunday evening, according to state and federal authorities.
Boelter was arrested in Sibley County, southwest of the Twin Cities, following a massive 43-hour search that involved local police, state troopers, the FBI, and U.S. Marshals. He was taken into custody without incident after law enforcement used cellphone data and tips to locate him hiding in a wooded area.
Authorities say Boelter began his attack early Saturday morning. He allegedly impersonated law enforcement by using a vehicle with flashing lights to approach the Hortman residence in Brooklyn Park, where he fatally shot the couple. He then traveled to Champlin, where he allegedly shot and wounded State Senator John Hoffman and his wife Yvette. Both victims were hospitalized and underwent surgery, but are expected to recover.
According to the FBI, Boelter was wearing tactical gear and may have used a latex mask during the ambush. A search of his abandoned vehicle revealed a so-called “hit list” of nearly 70 Democratic lawmakers, including members of Minnesota’s congressional delegation.
Governor Tim Walz condemned the attacks as an act of “domestic political terrorism,” emphasizing the need for increased protection for public officials.
Boelter is currently being held in custody and faces charges including two counts of first-degree murder and two counts of attempted murder. Authorities have not yet announced when he will appear in court.