Suspect in Minnesota Lawmakers Shooting Surrenders After Nearly Two-Day Manhunt

 

Suspect in Minnesota Lawmakers Shooting Surrenders After Nearly Two-Day Manhunt The man suspected of shooting two Minnesota lawmakers and their family members was taken into custody Sunday after surrendering to police officers in a wooded area near his home. Vance Boelter was arrested and charged with two counts of murder and two of attempted murder. Authorities say he fatally shot former Democratic House Speaker Melissa Hortman and her husband, Mark, inside their home early Saturday, and also shot Sen. John Hoffman and his wife, Yvette, who were injured at their residence about 9 miles away. The extensive manhunt, described as the largest in Minnesota’s history, began when police arrived at Hortman’s home to find her husband gunned down. A vehicle linked to Boelter was found abandoned in rural Sibley County, and after a search involving helicopters and tactical teams, Boelter surrendered in a field, crawling out to officers before being handcuffed.

Authorities believe Boelter posed as a police officer, even modifying a vehicle to resemble a law enforcement car. An investigation recovered a list of around 70 names, including prominent lawmakers and community figures, found among writings in the fake police vehicle, suggesting a targeted attack. Boelter, a former political appointee who served on the same state workforce development board as Hoffman, sent a disturbing message to friends early Saturday, indicating he believed he might be dead soon. The motive for the attack remains unclear, but the investigation indicates political and ideological tensions may be involved.

The shootings have raised alarm across Minnesota amid rising political violence nationwide, prompting statements of concern from officials. Governor Tim Walz condemned the attack, emphasizing that such violence is unacceptable and not the norm. Yvette Hoffman shared her gratitude for the outpouring of support and updates on her husband’s condition, he survived nine gunshot wounds and is undergoing surgeries, while Melissa Hortman was pronounced dead. Memorials and messages of condolence have appeared across the state, honoring the victims.

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