Authorities asked David Carlson to identify his lifelong friend, Vance Boelter, in a photo after the weekend shootings. Carlson barely recognized Boelter in the surveillance image, describing their decades-long friendship as akin to brotherhood. He was shocked by Boelter's involvement, noting a hidden "darkness."
Boelter is charged with murder and stalking. Carlson and others are now reflecting on their interactions, wondering if they missed warning signs. Boelter, a married father, often stayed at Carlson's home. Carlson now believes Boelter was "a sick man."
Boelter had been struggling to find work and abruptly left his job to return to the Democratic Republic of the Congo. This was consistent with his tendency to go to extremes, as seen when he snuck into Gaza to preach Christianity.
Boelter graduated from a Bible college. The college and his church condemned the shootings. He expressed opposition to abortion in a sermon. Carlson described him as a regular, outspoken Christian.
The FBI revealed Boelter had lists of Minnesota public officials. Carlson was shocked. Boelter occasionally went to a shooting range. Carlson thought he was collecting firearms for self-defense. Carlson received an alarming text from Boelter before the shootings.
5 Comments
Raphael
I feel for Carlson. It’s incredibly difficult to reconcile your feelings about someone when they commit such acts. It speaks volumes about human complexity.
Michelangelo
The narrative that portrays Boelter as a misunderstood person is dangerous. We need to hold him fully accountable for his actions.
Donatello
Even the most devout can have hidden struggles. It’s a reminder that our faith communities must do better in addressing mental health issues.
Eric Cartman
I empathize with Carlson. We never truly know what someone is going through behind closed doors, and I hope he finds peace.
Stan Marsh
This tragic event can serve as a catalyst for much-needed discussions about mental health and the importance of community support.