Manhunt Intensifies for Vance Boelter in “Politically Motivated” Shootings Targeting Minnesota Lawmakers

SIBLEY COUNTY, MN (BuzzReport) – A massive manhunt is underway for Vance Boelter, 57, the suspect identified in the fatal shooting of a Democratic Minnesota lawmaker and the severe wounding of another in what Governor Tim Walz has called “politically motivated” attacks. The shootings occurred Saturday morning in two separate incidents, leaving the state reeling and law enforcement scrambling to apprehend Boelter.

State Representative Melissa Hortman of Brooklyn Park and her husband, Mark, were killed in one shooting. In the second incident, State Senator John Hoffman of Champlin and his wife, Yvette, were severely injured. Senator Hoffman and his wife remain hospitalized with serious injuries.

Authorities believe Boelter impersonated law enforcement to gain access to the lawmakers’ homes. Images circulating show a man, believed to be Boelter, at one of the victim’s doors wearing a long-sleeve shirt and what appears to be a bulletproof vest similar to those used by law enforcement. Another image shows a man wearing a cowboy hat walking alone.

The suspect’s vehicle and a cowboy hat believed to belong to him were discovered in Sibley County, prompting an emergency alert for residents in the area. The alert urges residents to keep their doors locked and vehicles secured. Minnesota State Troopers have established a staging area approximately three miles from Boelter’s home in Green Isle.

Minnesota Public Safety Commissioner Bob Jacobson described Boelter as 6-foot-1 with brown hair, often seen wearing a light-colored cowboy hat and a dark long-sleeve collared shirt or coat. He warned the public not to approach Boelter, emphasizing that he is “armed and dangerous.”

“This is a deeply troubling situation, and our thoughts are with the families and loved ones of the victims,” said Governor Walz during a press briefing Saturday. “We are committed to bringing the perpetrator to justice and ensuring the safety and security of all Minnesotans.”

According to a video circulating online, Boelter is married and a father of five children. His wife was stopped by the Mille Lacs County Sheriff’s Office Saturday morning in Onamia, Minnesota, as part of a perimeter stop. The sheriff’s office reported that “several other relatives” were in the car, but no one in the vehicle was questioned or searched.

The investigation is ongoing, and authorities are urging anyone with information regarding Boelter’s whereabouts to contact the Minnesota Bureau of Criminal Apprehension immediately.