Manhunt Underway for Suspect in Shootings of Minnesota Lawmakers
Authorities are actively searching for Vance Luther Boelter, a 57-year-old man believed to be involved in the tragic shootings of two Minnesota lawmakers and their spouses. The incidents, which occurred on Saturday, have left the community in shock and raised urgent concerns over safety.
Details of the Shootings
On Saturday, two couples were found shot at their residences, prompting immediate law enforcement response. Minnesota state Representative Melissa Hortman and her husband were discovered deceased in Brooklyn Park, while State Senator John Hoffman and his wife were injured and transported to a nearby hospital. Their current conditions remain undisclosed.
Suspect Profile
Vance Luther Boelter is described as 6 feet 1 inch tall, weighing approximately 220 pounds, with brown hair and brown eyes. He was last seen in Minneapolis on Saturday morning, wearing a dark long-sleeve shirt, light-colored pants, a cowboy hat, and carrying a dark bag. Authorities say he poses a significant threat, urging the public to avoid contact and report his whereabouts immediately.
Boelter has a background in state government, having previously been appointed to the Governor’s Workforce Development Council and the Governor’s Workforce Development Board. His last employment was as the director of security patrols at Praetorian Guard Security Services, according to state records.
Connection to the Victims
It remains unclear whether Boelter had any personal or professional relationships with the victims. However, he was reportedly experiencing financial troubles, with friends noting distressing messages he sent prior to the attacks, including statements expressing a desire to disappear.
In a disturbing twist, investigators found belongings and writings in Boelter’s vehicle, which included a list of nearly 70 potential targets, primarily individuals associated with abortion rights and Democratic affiliations.
FBI Involvement
The FBI is offering a $50,000 reward for information leading to Boelter’s capture. Minnesota Bureau of Criminal Apprehension Superintendent Drew Evans emphasized the gravity of the situation, stating, "We still don’t know if additional people are involved, but this individual is the one that we’re looking at as a person of interest right now."
Public Call to Action
Authorities are encouraging anyone with information regarding Boelter or his current location to contact the tip line at 877-996-6222 or email bca.tips@state.mn.us. The community remains on high alert as officials continue their investigation into this shocking and tragic series of events.
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