Federal and state law enforcement agencies have launched a multi-agency manhunt for Vance Luther Boelter, 57, in connection with the politically motivated shootings of two Minnesota lawmakers and their spouses early Saturday morning. The attacks, which left one lawmaker and her husband dead and another couple wounded, have shaken the state’s political landscape and sparked urgent calls for public vigilance.
What Happened
According to the Hennepin County Medical Examiner, Minnesota state Rep. Melissa Hortman, 55, and her husband Mark Hortman, 58, were gunned down in their home in Brooklyn Park. Mark was rushed to the hospital but later died of his injuries.
Approximately five miles away, State Sen. John Hoffman, 60, and his wife, Yvette, were also shot at their residence in Champlin. Both survived and are currently recovering from gunshot wounds.
Both Hortman and Hoffman were prominent members of the Democratic–Farmer–Labor Party, representing the northwest suburbs of the Twin Cities.
Authorities believe the attacks were deliberate and coordinated.
The Suspect Vance Luther Boelter
Boelter is described as 6-foot-1, approximately 220 pounds, with brown hair and brown eyes. The FBI released an image Saturday afternoon showing Boelter wearing a police-style uniform and a mask, standing outside one of the crime scenes.
He was last seen in Minneapolis, wearing a light-colored cowboy hat, a dark long-sleeve shirt, light pants, and carrying a dark bag. Officials say he is “armed and dangerous” and caution the public not to approach him, but to immediately call 911 if spotted.
A $50,000 reward is being offered for information leading to his arrest and conviction.
“This was a deliberate and violent attack on public servants and their families,” said Alvin M. Winston Sr., Special Agent in Charge at the FBI Minneapolis. “We are using every available resource to locate and apprehend Boelter. No tip is too small.”
Tips can be submitted by calling 877-996-6222 or emailing bca.tips@state.mn.us.
Who Is Vance Boelter?
Boelter has a notable professional background. He currently serves as Director of Security Patrols at Praetorian Guard Security Services. According to his LinkedIn, he previously held management roles in the convenience and food manufacturing industries.
From 2016 to 2023, Boelter served on the Minnesota Governor’s Workforce Development Board, appointed first by Gov. Mark Dayton and later by Gov. Tim Walz. The board advises the state on job development and workforce strategy.
Notably, Sen. Hoffman also served on the same 60-member board during Boelter’s terms, prompting authorities to examine whether the two men had prior contact. While there’s “overlap with some public meetings,” investigators say they haven’t confirmed a personal connection.
Evidence and Motive
During the investigation, police uncovered writings and documents in Boelter’s abandoned vehicle that included:
- A target list of over 50 individuals, including officials outside of Minnesota
- Abortion rights advocates and abortion facilities
- Fliers referencing an event called the “No Kings” rally
The nature of the documents suggests Boelter may have been planning additional attacks, prompting officials to cancel all scheduled “No Kings” protests across the state. Despite the cancellations, thousands still gathered in St. Paul, under heightened security.
The presence of a police-style SUV with activated emergency lights at Hortman’s home indicates the shooter may have used tactical deception, possibly to gain access or disorient targets. Officers who responded around 3:35 a.m. encountered the suspect exiting the home, leading to a brief exchange of gunfire before Boelter fled on foot.
Officials also confirmed Boelter was recently living in north Minneapolis, though his registered residence is a rural property in Sibley County, near Green Isle.
What’s Next
The shootings have raised concerns about domestic political violence, impersonation of law enforcement, and the radicalization of individuals with access to security training.
Authorities are asking for the public’s help in tracing Boelter’s recent movements and any associates who may have supported or enabled the attacks. Law enforcement has not ruled out additional suspects or accomplices.
“We want to speak with anyone who has had contact with Boelter—recently or historically,” said Minnesota Bureau of Criminal Apprehension Superintendent Drew Evans. “There may be others involved or who have critical knowledge.”
Conclusion
The tragic deaths of Rep. Hortman and her husband, along with the injuries sustained by Sen. Hoffman and his wife, have underscored the growing threats faced by public officials in America. As Minnesota reels from the violence, the top priority remains finding Boelter before further harm is done.
Residents across the state—and especially in the Twin Cities metro area—are urged to remain alert and report any sightings or suspicious activity immediately. With the manhunt intensifying, officials hope swift public cooperation will help bring justice to those affected and prevent further tragedy.
