The Minnesota lawmaker shootings ended Sunday when police captured the suspect, Vance Boelter, 57, after a nearly two-day manhunt. Boelter stands accused of killing former Democratic House Speaker Melissa Hortman and her husband, Mark. Additionally, he shot and seriously injured Democratic Senator John Hoffman and his wife, Yvette.
Authorities described the events that began early Saturday morning, when Boelter allegedly posed as a police officer at the Brooklyn Park home of Hortman and her husband. There, he carried out the deadly shooting. Following this, Boelter traveled about nine miles to Champlin. There, he shot Senator Hoffman and his wife at their residence.
After the attacks, a multi-agency task force, including the Minnesota State Patrol, tracked and arrested Boelter near Green Isle. KSTP-TV reporter Tom Hauser confirmed the arrest via social media, noting that Boelter was taken into custody alive.
Senator Hoffman’s wife, Yvette, updated the public on their condition. She said John multiple surgeries and is slowly improving. She also revealed that both she and her husband survived multiple gunshot wounds, with John hit nine times and herself eight times. The wife expressed gratitude for their survival and shock over the violence.
Meanwhile, officials confirmed they have questioned Boelter’s family members. However, none are in custody, and they have cooperated with investigators. Authorities have not disclosed a clear motive yet. But they found a list of about 70 names in writings inside the fake police vehicle Boelter left behind. This list included many prominent lawmakers and community leaders. The writings also contained details related to abortion rights advocates and healthcare facilities.
Records show that Boelter once served on a state workforce development board alongside Senator Hoffman. In a surprising development, Boelter texted friends to apologize after the shootings but did not mention his actions specifically.
The Minnesota lawmaker shootings have shaken the state deeply. Law enforcement and political leaders now focus on healing, investigation, and security to prevent further violence.
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