BROOKLYN PARK, Minn. (AP) — Authorities are conducting an extensive search for 57-year-old Vance Boelter, who is wanted for allegedly posing as a police officer and fatally shooting Minnesota Democratic state lawmaker Melissa Hortman and her husband, Mark, in their Brooklyn Park home on Saturday, June 14, 2025. Governor Tim Walz condemned the act as “a politically motivated assassination” and confirmed that Boelter also wounded another lawmaker, Sen. John Hoffman, and his wife, Yvette, approximately nine miles away in Champlin.
The FBI has issued a reward of up to $50,000 for information that leads to Boelter’s arrest. In a public appeal, they released a photo of the suspect wearing a tan cowboy hat and requested that anyone with sightings report them to authorities. The manhunt, now stretching into its second day, involves hundreds of law enforcement personnel.
The motive behind the attacks remains unclear, although reports indicate that Boelter had “No Kings” flyers in his vehicle, signifying possible political intentions. Authorities noted that his writings targeted notable lawmakers, particularly those who have championed abortion rights, leading many to suggest a connection between his actions and recent political tensions in the state.
Melissa Hortman, aged 55, was a prominent political figure, having served as the state House Democratic leader since 2017. She was an advocate for reproductive rights, pushing legislative measures to strengthen Minnesota's position as a safe haven for abortion patients from states with restrictive laws. The attack took place amidst a climate of increasing violence against elected officials across the country, resulting in heightened security concerns for lawmakers.
Law enforcement discovered the Hoffmans wounded after responding to gunfire reports at their home and took immediate action to check on Hortman, leading them to witness Boelter, who was dressed like a police officer, attempting to leave her residence. Upon confrontation, Boelter exchanged gunfire with the police before fleeing the scene on foot.
Sen. John Hoffman, 60, who has held his position since 2012 and chairs the Senate Human Services Committee, and his wife both underwent surgeries as a result of their injuries but are recovering. In the wake of the tragedy, Governor Walz ordered flags to be flown at half-staff in memory of Hortman and expressed his sorrow over the violence that has struck Minnesota's political leadership.
Boelter had previous political ties, serving on the same state workforce development board as John Hoffman. Several firearms, including AK-style weapons, were recovered from his vehicle, and it is reported that he remains armed, leading authorities to exercise extreme caution during the search. In a troubling text message sent to friends shortly after the shootings, Boelter expressed regret for his actions but did not elucidate any specifics regarding the incident.
The ongoing search and heightened concerns over political violence echo a disturbing trend occurring across the United States, where tensions have escalated into threats and attacks against public officials. Other recent incidents include the firebombing of Pennsylvania Governor Josh Shapiro's residence and threats made against political figures of various affiliations, underscoring the urgent need for protective measures for lawmakers.
This tragic event marks a dark moment in Minnesota’s political landscape, with calls for increased security for lawmakers intensifying as states grapple with the implications of political violence. Minnesota House Speaker Lisa Demuth condemned the attack as “evil” and expressed her devastation over the targeted violence against political figures.
The investigation is ongoing as law enforcement continues its efforts to locate Vance Boelter, urging anyone with information to contribute to the search. The implications of this act of violence will undoubtedly reverberate through the political community and the broader public, sparking discussions about political safety and the need for protection measures for elected officials.
