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A multi-agency manhunt is underway for Vance Luther Boelter, a 57-year-old man accused of carrying out two politically motivated shootings that killed former Minnesota House Speaker Melissa Hortman, 54, and her husband, Mark Hortman, 56, and left State Senator John Hoffman and his wife, Yvette, severely wounded.

Law enforcement officials describe the attacks as an "intentional and coordinated political assault" that has shaken Minnesota's political establishment and reignited national concerns about the safety of public officials.

The Attacks: What We Know

Authorities say Boelter first struck shortly before 2:00 a.m. on Saturday, entering Senator Hoffman’s home in Champlin, Minnesota. Both Hoffman, 62, and his wife Yvette, 59, were shot multiple times. While Yvette remains in critical condition, Hoffman is reported to be stable after emergency surgery at Hennepin County Medical Center.

Just over an hour later, police responding to the first shooting were proactively checking the home of Melissa and Mark Hortman in Brooklyn Park—approximately eight miles away. Upon arrival at 3:35 a.m., officers encountered the suspect, who opened fire and then fled out the back of the house.

Inside, officers found the bodies of both Melissa and Mark, who were declared dead at the scene. Melissa Hortman, a prominent Democrat and leading advocate for climate action and reproductive rights, had served in the Minnesota House since 2005 and stepped down as House Speaker earlier this year.

The Suspect: Vance Luther Boelter

Boelter, who remains at large, is considered armed and extremely dangerous. He was last seen wearing:

• A light-colored cowboy hat
• A dark, long-sleeved collared shirt
• Light trousers

Authorities believe Boelter may be driving a vehicle outfitted with emergency lights and sirens resembling those of a police cruiser. The FBI has offered a $50,000 reward for information leading to his arrest.

Boelter is listed as the Director of Security Patrols at Praetorian Guard Security Services, a Minnesota-based private security firm. Law enforcement is now probing his professional background and affiliations for potential links to extremist groups or ideologies.

Evidence of Premeditation

Authorities confirmed that Boelter impersonated a police officer to gain access to both homes. During a search of his vehicle, investigators uncovered a handwritten manifesto containing names and details of additional Minnesota lawmakers, many of whom are known for their pro-choice and progressive policy positions.

According to sources familiar with the document, the list includes at least nine sitting legislators, local judges, and media figures. The FBI is currently conducting a threat assessment and coordinating with Capitol security.

Political Motive Suspected

Law enforcement officials, including Drew Evans of the Minnesota Bureau of Criminal Apprehension, described the shootings as “deliberate and political in nature,” though the full motive is still under investigation.

“There is some overlap between the suspect and Senator Hoffman, but we’re still trying to determine the nature of that relationship,” Evans said. Investigators have not ruled out the possibility that Boelter was acting as part of a larger network.

National Response and Political Fallout

President Donald Trump condemned the attacks in a public statement Saturday morning, saying, “This horrific violence will not be tolerated in the United States of America.” He pledged that those responsible would face prosecution “to the fullest extent of the law.”

Attorney General Pam Bondi added that the Justice Department and FBI were actively assisting Minnesota authorities. “This appears to be a targeted attack on public servants,” she wrote, adding that the federal government “is closely monitoring the situation.”

In light of the violence, Minnesota State Patrol has advised residents to avoid all political gatherings or rallies scheduled for the weekend, citing credible threats and an ongoing risk of escalation.

Community and Lawmaker Reactions

Democratic National Committee Chair Ken Martin called the killings “heartbreaking and unacceptable,” noting that “public servants should not have to fear for their lives because of the positions they hold.”

Several elected officials from both parties have echoed this sentiment, calling for increased security measures for lawmakers and their families. Some are now pushing for federal legislation to expand protections for state-level officials—many of whom lack round-the-clock security.

The Broader Implications

This tragedy comes amid rising political tensions nationwide. According to the Center for Strategic and International Studies, incidents of politically motivated violence in the U.S. have increased by over 250% since 2015. Experts warn that the normalization of extremist rhetoric—particularly online—has created a volatile environment where violence is more likely to occur.

Security professionals also point to the growing use of private security contractors with law enforcement-style gear and vehicles, calling for tighter regulation of the industry.

The Path Forward

Governor Tim Walz, visibly shaken during a press conference, described Melissa Hortman as a “tireless fighter for Minnesotans and a dear friend.” He declared a state day of mourning and ordered flags at all public buildings to be flown at half-staff.

Law enforcement continues to search for Boelter, who remains at large more than 36 hours after the attacks. Authorities urge the public not to approach him and to immediately contact 911 if spotted.

In the meantime, both communities mourn the loss of a respected leader and brace for a new reality where political service appears increasingly perilous.