A Minnesota man has been charged in the politically motivated attacks that killed state Rep. Melissa Hortman and seriously wounded state Sen. John Hoffman and his wife. Court filings reveal Vance Boelter, 57, meticulously planned the assaults—down to drafting a “bailout plan” for his wife in case things went wrong.
At a Glance
- Boelter posed as a police officer using a replica vehicle and silicone mask to access victims’ homes
- A “manifesto” and target list of 70 lawmakers and activists was found in his truck
- The suspect and his wife were known “preppers,” with an evacuation and “bailout” plan
- A two-day manhunt ended in his arrest after a coordinated law enforcement dragnet
- Boelter now faces federal and state charges, including murder and attempted murder
The Prepper Plot
According to The Washington Post, Boelter had spent months assembling weapons, disguises, and tactical gear. Court records also reveal that he and his wife were survivalists who had rehearsed an emergency evacuation if the attacks failed.
As People reports, a manifesto in Boelter’s vehicle listed nearly 70 public figures, mostly abortion rights advocates and Democratic politicians—underscoring the premeditated, political nature of the crimes.
A Chilling Execution
The rampage began when Boelter impersonated an officer to gain entry to Rep. Hortman’s home in Champlin on June 14, shooting and killing her and her husband. Later that day, he attacked Sen. Hoffman’s home, seriously wounding Hoffman and his wife.
According to The Washington Post, he used a replica police cruiser and silicone mask to deceive victims and evade detection.
Watch: Inside the Minnesota political shootings
The Manhunt and Arrest
Over 100 officers joined a two-day manhunt, which ended in Sibley County with Boelter’s capture, as reported by FT and The Washington Post. Federal agents recovered firearms, tactical gear, and documents linking Boelter to other potential targets.
What’s Next
Boelter remains in custody without bail, facing federal murder charges with possible hate crime and civil rights enhancements. Prosecutors say further charges are likely, given the scale of the operation and its politically driven motives.
As this high-profile case moves forward, it raises urgent questions about escalating political violence in America—and how law enforcement will combat similar lone-wolf threats in the future.
