Manhunt Underway for Armed Suspect in Targeted Shootings of Minnesota Lawmakers

Vance Luther Boelter is a person of interest in the shooting of two Democratic lawmakers

Authorities have identified 57-year-old Vance Luther Boelter as the prime suspect in the targeted shootings of two Minnesota state lawmakers that occurred on Saturday, June 14. Officials have classified Boelter as "armed and dangerous" and are urging the public to immediately contact 911 if he is seen. He was last spotted wearing a light-colored cowboy hat, a dark long-sleeved collared shirt or coat, light pants, and carrying a dark bag.

State Representative Melissa Hortman, 55, and her husband, Mark, were killed in one of the attacks. Democratic State Senator John Hoffman, 60, and his wife, Yvette, survived a separate shooting on the same day. According to Brooklyn Park Police Chief Mark Bruley, the suspect impersonated a police officer and fled the scene on foot. A vehicle linked to the suspect was recovered, and investigators found a manifesto inside it containing a list of nearly 70 names, including lawmakers, abortion providers, and pro-abortion rights advocates across various states.

Boelter is a former appointee of Minnesota Gov. Tim Walz, police sources said

The recovered vehicle resembled a police SUV and was equipped with emergency lights. The discovery has raised concerns about the suspect’s method of entry and impersonation of law enforcement. Police are warning residents to exercise extreme caution if approached by anyone claiming to be a police officer. Officers in Brooklyn Park have been instructed to only approach homes in pairs. Residents are advised not to open their doors unless the officers’ presence has been confirmed through 911 dispatch.

Boelter is a Minnesota-based businessman with a long career in security services. He is listed as CEO of Praetorian Guard Security Services and the Red Lion Group, the latter based in the Democratic Republic of Congo. He has claimed involvement in international security operations and has received training from both private firms and members of the U.S. military.

Minnesota Rep. Melissa Hortman and her husband were killed in the shooting, according to reports

Boelter previously served on the Governor’s Workforce Development Board, appointed by both Governor Tim Walz and former Governor Mark Dayton, holding a four-year term from 2019 to 2023. His professional background includes past employment with companies such as Nestle, Del Monte, Tesoro, Marathon Speedway, and 7-Eleven.

The shootings have been described by officials as a "politically motivated assassination." The investigation remains ongoing, and the FBI has joined state and local authorities in an expansive manhunt.

Minnesota Gov. Tim Walz speaks about the killing of state Rep. Melissa Hortman and her husband at the State Emergency Operations Center in Blaine, Minn., Saturday, June 14, 2025.