Minnesota Manhunt Ends with Arrest of Suspected Shooter in Political Assassinations

Vance Boelter, 57, has been arrested following the largest manhunt in Minnesota’s history after the deadly shootings of Minnesota Democratic Representative Melissa Hortman and her husband, Mark Hortman, in what officials are calling a “politically-motivated assassination.”

The tragic events unfolded Saturday when Melissa and Mark Hortman were found shot dead in their home. Earlier that same morning, Senator John Hoffman and his wife, Yvette, were shot and severely wounded at their residence, located just nine miles away. Both Hoffman and his wife underwent emergency surgery and are currently recovering, with Governor Tim Walz expressing cautious optimism about their survival.Photo of Vance Luther Boelter in custody.

Security footage from the Hortman residence showed the suspect disguised in a latex mask and a police uniform knocking on the door before opening fire. Authorities said Boelter immediately engaged responding officers before fleeing the scene.

After two days of an intense manhunt involving multiple law enforcement agencies, Boelter was found hiding in the woods of Sibley County, southwest of Minneapolis, and was taken into custody without incident. Residents in the area had been warned to stay indoors as the search intensified.

Investigators discovered multiple AK-style firearms and a list of approximately 70 names—including politicians and abortion rights activists—inside a vehicle connected to Boelter. Flyers linked to the “No Kings” movement, a protest group opposing former President Donald Trump’s perceived overreach of power, were also found.

Boelter faces two counts of second-degree murder and two counts of attempted second-degree murder. Police caution that the motive appears politically charged.

In a chilling twist, Boelter’s roommate revealed that he had sent ominous text messages before the arrest, indicating he expected to die soon.

Boelter’s wife, Jenny Boelter, was briefly detained during a traffic stop where authorities discovered weapons, cash, and passports but was not arrested.

Governor Walz described the loss of Melissa and Mark Hortman as an “unspeakable tragedy” and mourned the death of his “good friend and colleague.” The community and state now await further developments as the investigation continues.