Suspect Dressed as Law Enforcement; Vance Boelter, 57, Sought in Connection
A prominent Democratic state legislator in Minnesota and her husband were killed, while another lawmaker and his wife were injured in a shooting early Saturday. Governor Tim Walz confirmed the death of State Representative Melissa Hortman and her husband, Mark, calling the attack a “politically motivated assassination.” Hortman was the top Democrat in Minnesota’s House and a former speaker. Meanwhile, State Senator John Hoffman and his wife, Yvette, were shot multiple times but survived surgery.
Authorities reported the gunman remained at large, with Brooklyn Park under a shelter-in-place order. The suspect, Vance Boelter, 57, allegedly impersonated a police officer, wearing a realistic uniform and driving a vehicle resembling a police SUV. Flyers linked to the “No Kings” anti-Trump protests were found in his car, prompting officials to urge caution at planned demonstrations.
Details of the Attack and Suspect’s Tactics
Police Chief Mark Bruley revealed the suspect’s SUV had emergency lights and markings nearly identical to a squad car, while his uniform included a badge, vest, and Taser indistinguishable from genuine gear.
“You would assume they were an officer,” Bruley said.
Investigators found a list of officials in the vehicle, suggesting premeditated targeting. Drew Evans of Minnesota’s Bureau of Criminal Apprehension confirmed the victims were on the list but stressed it was “too early” to determine if politics drove the attack.
Governor and Officials Condemn Political Violence
Governor Walz mourned Hortman as an irreplaceable leader devoted to public service.
“This was targeted political violence,” he said. “Our democracy relies on peaceful discourse, not guns.”
Bob Jacobson, Public Safety Commissioner, vowed enhanced security for officials, calling it a “dark day for Minnesota.” Meanwhile, Senator Amy Klobuchar and former President Donald Trump denounced the shootings, with Trump promising full prosecution.
Ongoing Manhunt and Public Safety Warnings
Police advised residents to verify officers’ identities before opening doors, as the suspect may still pose a threat. The attacks occurred amid rising political violence nationwide, though most Americans oppose such acts, per a University of Chicago study.