Minnesota Suspect Attempted to Kill Two Other State Lawmakers, Officials Say

 

A man identified as Vance Luther Boelter, 57, has been charged with a series of violent attacks targeting Minnesota state lawmakers, including the brutal killing of Democratic lawmaker Melissa Hortman and her husband. Boelter allegedly also attempted to murder two other state lawmakers and their spouses, in what officials describe as a "truly chilling" set of incidents. According to federal and state authorities, Boelter had meticulously researched his victims and their whereabouts, planning a larger attack which was thwarted by law enforcement. He faces multiple federal charges, including murder, stalking, firearms violations, and potentially the death penalty if convicted.

All You Need to Know About the Case • Boelter arrived at the Hortman residence disguised as a police officer, using a realistic silicon mask, and falsely claimed there was a reported shooting in the area. • He shot and killed Melissa Hortman and her husband Mark after they realized he was not a police officer. • He fired multiple times at Yvette and John Hoffman, who remain hospitalized but are expected to recover. • Boelter then traveled to the homes of two other lawmakers, attempting to target them as well, but was intercepted by officers and later found in a wooded area near Minneapolis. • Police discovered he had a detailed surveillance of the victims' homes, multiple firearms including assault rifles, and a list of over 45 Minnesota state and federal officials. Authorities’ Response: • Law enforcement successfully prevented a larger tragedy by intercepting Boelter and confiscating his car, weapons, and maps of lawmakers’ homes. • Boelter surrendered peacefully after a two-day search. Impact: • Officials described the attack as "a chilling assault on democracy," highlighting the dangerous rise of political extremism. • Boelter is scheduled for a court hearing on June 27.

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