Vance Luther Boelter, 57, the man accused of murdering Minnesota House Speaker Melissa Hortman and her husband and critically injuring State Senator John Hoffman and his wife, was arrested Sunday evening in Sibley County. Law enforcement located and apprehended Boelter in the 35600 block of 200th Street in Green Isle following a targeted tip. He was taken into custody without incident under a state criminal warrant.
The Largest Manhunt in State History
Minnesota officials confirmed this was the largest coordinated manhunt in state history, involving more than 20 agencies statewide. Tactical teams from the Brooklyn Park Police Department, Champlin Police, multiple SWAT teams, and federal agencies including the FBI, ATF, and U.S. Marshals worked in unison. Air surveillance from the Minnesota State Patrol Air Wing played a critical role in the final phase of the operation.
Details of the Attacks
The first attack occurred at approximately 2:05 a.m. Saturday when Senator Hoffman and his wife were shot multiple times in their Champlin home. Around 3:35 a.m., police conducting a precautionary check at the Hortman residence observed Boelter outside the home. Posing as a police officer, he opened fire through the front door, killing both victims before fleeing the scene.
Disguised as Law Enforcement
Security footage shows Boelter wearing tactical police-style gear, a latex Halloween mask, and operating a Ford SUV equipped with police lights. He announced himself as law enforcement before entering the homes. This deception allowed him to gain proximity to the victims before launching his attacks.
Weapons, Mask, and Target List Recovered
Authorities recovered multiple firearms, including AK-47s and a 9mm handgun, along with a ballistic vest, a police-style badge, and a list of names and addresses of public officials. The tactical nature of the attacks and the contents of his vehicle suggest significant premeditation.
Law Enforcement Unity in the Face of Evil
At a press conference, BCA Superintendent Drew Evans emphasized the magnitude of the response, stating, “When this kind of evil enters a community, law enforcement comes together.” He praised the efforts of both Brooklyn Park and Champlin Police Departments, along with support from small towns, county sheriffs, and federal partners. “This was about making sure the people of Minnesota—and legislators who were targeted—could breathe a sigh of relief as soon as possible,” Evans said.
Formal Charges and Legal Process
Boelter has been charged with four felony counts: two for the second-degree murders of Melissa and Mark Hortman, and two for the attempted second-degree murders of Senator John and Yvette Hoffman. Each charge carries a maximum of 40 years in prison, with a mandatory minimum of three years due to firearm use. His bail is set at $5 million, and he is currently held in Hennepin County Jail.
Federal Charges Still Under Consideration
Evans confirmed that the investigation is ongoing in coordination with the FBI and the U.S. Attorney’s Office, who are considering whether federal charges may be filed. This could include crimes related to impersonation of law enforcement or interstate criminal conduct. More information will be released as prosecutors assess the full scope of Boelter’s actions.
Senator Hoffman and Wife in Recovery
Senator Amy Klobuchar shared a message from Yvette Hoffman, who reported that John was shot nine times and she eight times. Both remain in intensive recovery. Yvette expressed deep sorrow for the loss of the Hortmans and stated, “There is never a place for this kind of political hate.”
Investigation Continues, Leads Developing
In addition to Boelter’s arrest, authorities are continuing to examine potential accomplices. His wife, Jenny Boelter, was detained Saturday during a traffic stop with a weapon, ammunition, cash, and passports in her vehicle. She has not been charged but remains under active investigation. Officials are also reviewing Boelter’s business and political connections, including his previous appointments to Minnesota state workforce boards under Governors Dayton and Walz.
Minnesota Breathes a Sigh of Relief
The arrest of Vance Boelter has brought a sense of closure to a terrifying weekend for Minnesotans. While the investigation is far from over, the immediate threat has been neutralized. Law enforcement has vowed continued transparency as the case progresses, and citizens are encouraged to report any additional information they may have.
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