A 57-year-old man has been arrested in connection with the fatal shooting of a senior Democratic lawmaker in Minnesota and her husband, in what authorities described as a politically motivated attack.
Minnesota Governor Tim Walz confirmed on Sunday that the suspect, identified as Vance Luther Boelter, was apprehended following a statewide manhunt. The victims were Melissa Hortman, the Speaker of the Minnesota House of Representatives, and her husband, Mark. The couple was reportedly shot dead on Saturday by a man impersonating a police officer.
"This was not random. This was a targeted and politically motivated assassination," said Governor Walz at a press conference. "This is an attack not just on individuals, but on our democratic institutions."
The violence extended further when Boelter allegedly attacked state Senator John Hoffman and his wife, Yvette, at their residence located just a few miles away. Hoffman, who sustained nine bullet wounds, underwent multiple surgeries and is said to be in stable condition. His wife was also injured, though details of her condition were not immediately released.
According to a criminal complaint unsealed by Hennepin County prosecutors, Boelter has been charged with two counts of second-degree murder and two counts of second-degree attempted murder. Three of the charges carry a maximum penalty of up to 40 years in prison each.
Authorities discovered a cache of weapons inside Boelter’s SUV following his arrest, including three AK-47-style rifles, a 9mm handgun, and a detailed list of other public officials along with their home addresses.
Investigators say Boelter claimed affiliation with evangelical ministries and purported to have served as a security consultant in conflict zones such as Gaza and parts of Africa. However, these assertions are under scrutiny, with officials reviewing his background and online activity to determine any broader threats.
The double homicide has added to growing concerns over political violence in the United States. The country has witnessed a series of high-profile incidents in recent years, including the 2022 hammer attack on Paul Pelosi, husband of former U.S. House Speaker Nancy Pelosi, and an assassination attempt on former President Donald Trump in 2024.
Governor Walz called for unity and condemned political extremism, stating, “We must ensure our elected representatives can serve without fear. Violence can never be a substitute for political disagreement.”
The investigation remains ongoing, with federal and state agencies involved in assessing whether Boelter acted alone or had accomplices. Additional security measures are being considered for state officials in the wake of the attack.
Hortman, 53, had served in the Minnesota House since 2005 and was widely respected for her legislative leadership and efforts in education and climate policy. Tributes from colleagues poured in throughout Sunday, mourning her death and calling for justice.
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