Updated: June 15, 2025
A chilling act of political violence has rocked Minnesota as authorities continue a manhunt for Vance Luther Boelter, 57, accused of posing as a police officer to carry out deadly attacks against state legislators in their homes early Friday morning.
🔫 Two Lawmakers Targeted, One Couple Killed
At approximately 2:00 a.m. on June 14, a man dressed in tactical gear claiming to be law enforcement entered the Champlin home of State Senator John Hoffman and his wife Yvette. Both were shot and seriously wounded. Authorities say the suspect impersonated a police officer, using a fake badge, a rubber mask, and a vehicle equipped with flashing lights.
Roughly 90 minutes later, a second attack occurred in Brooklyn Park at the home of Minnesota House Minority Leader Melissa Hortman and her husband, Mark. Responding officers exchanged fire with the intruder, but the suspect fled the scene. Both Melissa and Mark were later found dead inside the home.
đź“„ A Political Hit List and Manifesto
Investigators found a “manifesto” in the suspect’s vehicle, along with a list of 50 to 70 names—primarily pro-choice lawmakers, abortion providers, and affiliated organizations like Planned Parenthood. Flyers recovered at the scene bore the phrase “No Kings”, referencing a loosely organized anti-Trump and anti-establishment movement.
Officials say this was a targeted political assassination, not a random act.
🕵️‍♂️ Who is Vance Boelter?
Boelter is a former appointee under Governor Tim Walz’s administration, having served on the Workforce Development Board in 2016 and again in 2019. He also ran a private security firm called Praetorian Guard Security Services and has prior experience in military-style operations.
Security footage and doorbell cameras captured Boelter in a cowboy hat, dark tactical gear, and body armor. Authorities confirmed he sent a chilling message to his roommates at 6 a.m., saying:
“I may be dead shortly. I did it.”
⚠️ Statewide Manhunt and Public Alert
Boelter remains at large as of Sunday morning. The FBI has issued a $50,000 reward for information leading to his arrest. Law enforcement officials are warning the public not to approach him and to verify any law enforcement contact by calling 911 directly.
“Do not open your door to anyone claiming to be law enforcement unless they can be verified by dispatch,” said Minnesota State Police in a public alert.
🗣️ Political Reactions
Governor Tim Walz ordered flags at half-staff and called the attacks “an unspeakable tragedy and an attack on democracy itself.” Elected officials from across the political spectrum have condemned the violence, including both President Biden and former President Trump.
“This is terrorism. Domestic, targeted, and intentional,” said Rep. Ilhan Omar in a statement.
🧠What Comes Next?
As law enforcement continues the search, questions remain:
- Are more names on the hit list in danger?
- What connections exist between Boelter and extremist groups?
- How did a former government appointee go undetected in planning such an attack?
Meanwhile, community members have begun organizing candlelight vigils for the victims, while state lawmakers push for increased security protocols and a review of how political extremism is monitored in the state.
đź“ž How to Help
Anyone with information about Boelter’s whereabouts is urged to contact:
- FBI Tip Line: 1-800-CALL-FBI (225-5324)
- Local Tip Line: 877-996-6222
