Shooter of Minnesota Lawmakers Captured After Two-Day Manhunt

Authorities confirmed the capture of Vance Boelter, the man accused of fatally shooting Minnesota state lawmakers Melissa and Mark Hortman. The 57-year-old was apprehended in Sibley County after a comprehensive two-day manhunt following the tragic events at the Hortman residence in Brooklyn Park, where the couple was killed, and a subsequent attack at the home of State Senator John Hoffman.

In a coordinated effort involving over 20 SWAT teams, law enforcement agencies scoured the area, utilizing helicopters and ground searches to locate Boelter. Remarkably, Boelter surrendered to police, identifying himself verbally as officers closed in on him, marking the conclusion of what has been described as the state's largest manhunt to date.

Boelter is now facing serious charges, including four felony counts of second-degree murder related to both the deaths of the Hortmans and the attempted murder of the Hoffmans. Each charge carries significant prison time, raising the possibility of a long sentence if convicted. Minnesota Governor Tim Walz praised the bravery of the Hoffman family, attributing their actions to a potential saving of lives amid the chaos of the attack.

The tragic incident began in the early morning hours when Champlin Police responded to a 911 call reporting gunfire at the Hoffman residence. Surveillance footage allegedly captured Boelter, clad in tactical gear, arriving in a vehicle designed to look like a police cruiser, falsely identifying himself as an officer before committing the assault. Subsequently, a similar incident occurred at the Hortman's home, where officers discovered the couple had been shot.

Investigators discovered a shocking collection of weapons in Boelter's vehicle, including multiple assault rifles and a list of other public officials' names, suggesting a broader, sinister intent behind his actions. With a bail set at $5 million, the case continues to unfold, revealing disturbing aspects of a targeted attack against officials in the community. The situation has heightened discussions around political violence, with public leaders condemning such acts and urging for unity and safety among elected officials.