A man believed to have shot and killed Minnesota state Rep. Melissa Hortman and her husband, as well as injured state Sen. John Hoffman and his wife, was captured over the weekend, new reports suggest.
Multiple sources, speaking anonymously to KSTP, confirmed that 57-year-old Vance Boelter was taken into custody near his residence in Green Isle. His capture took place a few hours after authorities found a vehicle associated with him in Sibley County. Officials have not yet publicly announced details of his arrest.
Previously mentioned by CrimeOnline, Rep. Hortman and her husband were shot and killed in Brooklyn Park on Saturday. In a separate incident nearby in Champlin, Sen. John Hoffman and his wife were shot and are now in the hospital.
Boelter previously worked with the Minnesota government in the private sector as a representative to the Governor’s Workforce Development Council, for which he was appointed to that role by former Gov. Mark Dayton from 2016 to 2019. According to state records, he was later appointed by Gov. Tim Walz to the Governor’s Workforce Development Board as a business member until 2023.
Boelter’s friend, David Carlson, reportedly said that Boelter was experiencing financial issues and having difficulties finding work. Carlson also told KARE that Boelter sent texts to him and his friends saying, “gonna be gone for a while” and “may be dead shortly,” before the shootings occurred.
Law enforcement found belongings and other writings in Boelter’s vehicle. They also discovered a list of nearly 70 people who are believed to be possible targets, primarily Democrats or individuals affiliated with abortion rights.
The FBI issued a nationwide warrant for Boelter’s arrest. The agency was also offering a $50,000 reward for information leading to his arrest and conviction.
This story is developing.
* Additional reporting by Shannon Quaranta.
[Feature Photo: FBI]
