Officials Gives Another Update In MN Murder Case
The investigation into Vance Boelter, the 57-year-old man accused of shooting Minnesota lawmakers and their spouses, has revealed an attempted political killing spree that extended beyond the two incidents originally reported. Federal and state officials now say Boelter’s actions on the night of the attacks were part of a premeditated, targeted operation aimed at multiple public officials.
Boelter has been charged with two counts of second-degree murder for the killing of State Representative Melissa Hortman and her husband. In addition, he faces two counts of attempted second-degree murder for the shootings of State Senator John Hoffman and his wife. Federal prosecutors have filed six additional charges, including murder and stalking, bringing a broad legal assault against the suspect.
Hennepin County Attorney Mary Moriarty announced plans to upgrade the charges to first-degree murder, citing the evidence of premeditation and political motivation. If convicted on those charges, Boelter could face life imprisonment without the possibility of parole.
Authorities say Boelter meticulously planned the attacks. He surveilled his targets for an extended period, conducted research on them and their families, and was found in possession of detailed information. When arrested, law enforcement recovered three AK-47 rifles, a 9mm handgun, and a list of names and addresses of public officials inside Boelter’s vehicle.
During a search of the area around the Hortman residence, police found a ballistic vest, a mask, a disassembled handgun, and a counterfeit gold badge designed to mimic law enforcement credentials.
According to FBI officials and a CBS News report, Boelter’s violent spree unfolded over several hours. Following the attack on Senator Hoffman and his wife, Boelter visited the home of another state representative in Maple Grove. That individual was out of town at the time. He then appeared at the home of a state senator in New Hope, where a local police officer noticed a suspicious vehicle that turned out to be Boelter’s disguised car. The suspect fled before law enforcement could detain him.
Boelter was later apprehended in Sibley County after a 36-hour manhunt. The FBI and local law enforcement worked in coordination during the search and subsequent arrest.
FBI spokesperson Thompson described the attacks as a “political assassination,” emphasizing the suspect’s intent to target elected officials. While authorities declined to name the other officials Boelter visited or surveilled, they confirmed these individuals were notified and are receiving appropriate security measures.
Moriarty affirmed her office’s commitment to pursuing justice: “We will seek justice and accountability for the victims of these heinous crimes.” Her statement followed public concern over the apparent scope of Boelter’s plot and its implications for the safety of public officials.