Brooklyn Park, MN – A wave of politically motivated violence has rocked Minnesota after two state lawmakers and their spouses were shot in separate targeted attacks early Saturday morning. Authorities have identified the suspect as 57-year-old Vance Luther Boelter, a former state official with past appointments under both Democratic governors. Boelter remains at large and is considered armed and extremely dangerous.
The first shooting occurred just after 2:00 a.m. at the Champlin home of State Senator John Hoffman. Both Hoffman and his wife, Yvette, were shot multiple times but survived after undergoing emergency surgery. Roughly an hour later, the second and deadlier attack unfolded in Brooklyn Park, where Representative Melissa Hortman and her husband, Mark, were shot. Hortman died at the scene, while her husband remains in critical condition.
Investigators say Boelter posed as a police officer during the attacks, wearing black body armor, a fake badge, and carrying a weapon. His vehicle was also outfitted with emergency lights. A manifesto found in his car listed several elected officials as targets, confirming the attacks were politically driven. Authorities say Boelter’s actions were carefully planned and ideologically motivated.
“This was not a random act,” said Drew Evans of the Minnesota Bureau of Criminal Apprehension. “It was a calculated assault on our democratic institutions.” Minnesota Governor Tim Walz called it a “horrific political assassination attempt,” and ordered flags to be flown at half-staff statewide in honor of Rep. Hortman.
Rep. Hortman was a prominent figure in Minnesota politics, serving her 11th term and previously holding the role of Speaker of the House. Sen. Hoffman, also a Democrat, represents Champlin and surrounding areas and is known for his leadership on health and environmental issues. The attacks have left the state stunned and grieving.
Boelter’s deep ties to Minnesota government — including past roles on the Governor’s Workforce Development Council — have intensified the shock surrounding the case. Law enforcement has issued a shelter-in-place alert for residents near Brooklyn Park and Champlin, warning the suspect may still be impersonating law enforcement officers.
The FBI is assisting with the manhunt, and authorities are asking anyone with information to contact the Minnesota Bureau of Criminal Apprehension or call 911. Officials stress the importance of verifying an officer’s identity before answering the door. The investigation remains active, with more updates expected as the situation develops.