The suspect in the killing of Minnesota State Representative Melissa Hortman and her husband, Mark, has been taken into custody. Vance Boelter, 57, was arrested on Sunday evening in a rural area of Sibley County, southwest of Minneapolis, after a nearly two-day manhunt. Boelter is accused of fatally shooting the Hortmans at their Brooklyn Park home and wounding State Senator John Hoffman and his wife, Yvette, at their Champlin home.
Authorities believe Boelter acted alone in the attacks, which were described as “targeted political violence” by Governor Tim Walz. The suspect had been impersonating a police officer and had a list of about 70 potential targets, including politicians, abortion providers, and community leaders. Boelter faces charges of second-degree murder and attempted second-degree murder.
The investigation revealed that Boelter texted friends to apologize for his actions, stating he would be “gone for a while” and “may be dead shortly.” The arrest was made without incident, with law enforcement officials confirming that no force was used during the apprehension. The community is still reeling from the tragic incident, with many paying tribute to Melissa Hortman, who was remembered as a powerful leader and champion of abortion rights.
