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Tuesday, Jun 17, 2025

Minnesota Shooting Suspect Identified as Vance Boelter Amid Ongoing Manhunt

Authorities pursue Vance Boelter, linked to the fatal shootings of Democratic lawmakers, as investigations reveal disturbing details about his background.
Law enforcement agencies in the United States have launched a massive manhunt for Vance Boelter, a 57-year-old man suspected of shooting and killing a Minnesota state legislator and her husband, and wounding another senator and his spouse, amid allegations of a politically motivated attack.

The incident has drawn national attention and raised concerns about political violence in the United States.

Boelter, who has a background in security services and is described as an outspoken evangelical Christian, reportedly worked for Praetorian Guard Security Services, a company that provided armed patrols and advertised a fleet of 'police-type vehicles.' This aspect of his employment may have aided him in impersonating law enforcement during the attack.

The violence took place at the home of Representative Melissa Hortman, a prominent Democratic figure, where Boelter allegedly first engaged with police.

Officials stated that a vehicle resembling a police cruiser was observed at the scene, and an individual dressed as an officer fired upon responding officers before fleeing the area.

Hortman and her husband were both confirmed deceased as a result of the attack, while Minnesota State Senator John Hoffman and his wife sustained injuries but are reported to be in stable condition after surgery.

Following the shooting, authorities discovered what appeared to be a hit list inside Boelter's vehicle.

The list reportedly included the names of numerous Democrats and individuals affiliated with Planned Parenthood and the abortion rights movement.

The Minnesota Department of Public Safety has confirmed they are still investigating the suspect's motivations, especially considering the nature of the hit list which features prominent political figures including Congresswoman Ilhan Omar and Senator Tina Smith.

Fliers related to anti-Trump protests were also found within Boelter's vehicle, prompting further inquiries into his political affiliations.

Witnesses close to Boelter, especially from his church community, expressed shock at the violence attributed to him.

Pastor McNay Nkashama commented that Boelter was known as a volunteer who preached Christianity, reflecting on the difficulty of reconciling the allegations against him with the person they knew.

Boelter's past public statements often highlighted his deep faith, with references to his religious conversion in his teenage years and extensive travels to preach in regions like the Democratic Republic of Congo.

Records indicate that Boelter was appointed by Governor Tim Walz to the Governor's Workforce Development Board in 2019, recognizing his 'integrity, judgment, and ability.' It remains unclear how closely he interacted with the victims during his service on the board.

Law enforcement has indicated they are unsure of the precise relationship between Boelter and the victims, as investigations continue to piece together possible connections.

In public records, Boelter is noted to not have any prior criminal charges, barring minor traffic violations.

He maintained a diverse professional background, which included positions at major companies and leadership roles within community organizations.

His personal information indicates he holds advanced degrees in leadership and management, further complicating the narrative surrounding his violent actions.

As the investigation progresses, authorities in Minnesota continue to work diligently to locate Boelter and secure the community's safety.

The events have opened discussions surrounding political violence and the broader implications for public figures in the current political climate.
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