BROOKLYN PARK, Minn. (AP) — A dramatic manhunt unfolded in the Minneapolis suburb of Brooklyn Park on Saturday, as law enforcement officials searched for 57-year-old Vance Boelter. Boelter is accused of fatally shooting Democratic former House Speaker Melissa Hortman and her husband, Mark, in their home, alongside wounding another Democratic lawmaker, Sen. John Hoffman, and his wife Yvette, at their residence in Champlin, approximately 9 miles away. Minnesota Governor Tim Walz characterized the incident as "a politically motivated assassination."
The attacks occurred in the early hours of Saturday morning, leading authorities to conduct extensive searches throughout the area. Drew Evans, the superintendent of the Minnesota Bureau of Criminal Apprehension, confirmed at a news conference that Boelter remained at large and that authorities had obtained video evidence to aid in the search. While specific details about the suspect's motive were not disclosed, his writings reportedly targeted prominent lawmakers known for advocating abortion rights, according to a Minnesota official who requested anonymity.
The horrifying events prompted immediate alerts to other elected officials in Minnesota and resulted in the cancellation of planned "No Kings" protests against President Donald Trump. Authorities discovered "No Kings" flyers in Boelter's vehicle and writings that potentially indicated further intentions against other lawmakers. The shootings highlight the concerning trend of political violence across the nation amidst a climate of political division.
Police responded to reports of gunfire at the Hoffmans' home shortly after 2 a.m. Upon arriving, officers found the couple with multiple gunshot wounds. After realizing the identity of the victims, officers proceeded to Hortman's residence, where they encountered a man dressed as an officer, matching Boelter’s description. When confronted, he opened fire on the police, resulting in an exchange of gunfire before escaping back into the home.
Following the attacks, a significant law enforcement presence was deployed, including hundreds of officers equipped with tactical gear and assault-style weapons. Residents received safety alerts advising them to shelter in place as the search for the suspect continued. By the afternoon, authorities believed Boelter had left the area and lifted the shelter-in-place order.
Hortman, aged 55, had served as a prominent leader in the Minnesota House since 2017 and was instrumental in advocating for legislation to protect and expand abortion rights. In contrast, Hoffman, 60, was first elected to the state Senate in 2012 and held a pivotal role as chair of the Senate Human Services Committee overseeing a significant portion of the state budget. Both lawmakers are remembered for their commitment to public service, with Governor Walz praising Hortman's influence and dedication to Minnesota.
Meanwhile, Boelter had notable ties to the political landscape, having been appointed to a workforce development board by then-Governor Mark Dayton in 2016 and subsequently reappointed by the current governor in 2019. His wife reportedly operates a security services company, raising questions about Boelter's background in security.
The aftermath of the attacks ignited discussions about the escalating threats targeted at lawmakers. Recent years have seen a distressing rise in incidents of violence, harassment, and intimidation against political figures. Senate Democratic Leader Chuck Schumer urged immediate increases in security for Minnesota Senators Amy Klobuchar and Tina Smith following the killings, emphasizing the need for more comprehensive measures to combat political violence and protect democratic values.
As a coalition of law enforcement agencies continues to pursue Boelter, the tragic events of that night serve as a stark reminder of the vulnerabilities faced by public figures in today's politically charged environment.
