Minnesota Lawmaker and Husband Killed in Suspected Political Attack; Suspect Arrested After Two-Day Manhunt

A 57-year-old man, Vance Luther Boelter, has been arrested in Minnesota on suspicion of killing Democratic state lawmaker Melissa Hortman and her husband Mark in what officials are calling a politically motivated assassination. The couple was killed in Brooklyn Park, triggering the largest manhunt in the state’s history. Boelter, who was reportedly armed, surrendered peacefully when confronted in Sibley County, about 50 miles from the scene.

Boelter is also accused of shooting and injuring Democratic State Senator John Hoffman and his wife Yvette, who are now recovering in hospital. Authorities believe the suspect impersonated a police officer to carry out the attacks and later fled after exchanging gunfire with law enforcement. A vehicle allegedly used in the shootings was found with a notebook containing names of other potential targets, prompting warnings to officials across several Midwest states.

Governor Tim Walz condemned the killings as an “unspeakable act” that has deeply impacted Minnesota, stressing that such political violence cannot be normalized. Boelter, a former political appointee and religious missionary with international ties, once served on a state board with Senator Hoffman. Investigators continue to probe the suspect’s motives and possible connections, as officials reaffirm the need for accountability and democratic resilience.

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