Fugitive Assassin in Minnesota Nabs After Countrywide Manhunt
Minnesota Fugitive's Identity Unveiled by Police
In the chilling echoes of a violent weekend, Minnesota breathes a sigh of relief as authorities apprehend the wanted assassin who claimed the lives of a high-ranking politician and her husband, and left others badly injured. This brutal incident, believed to be politically motivated, has sparked a nationwide debate on political violence in the United States.
The suspect, Vance B., was on the run after the shocking double murder-attempt that took place at the residence of Democratic US House Representative Melissa Hortman and her husband Mark. In a nearby neighborhood, Democratic Minnesota State Senator John Hoffman and his wife Yvette also felt the sting of gunfire, resulting in critical injuries. The authorities suspect a link between these attacks, as well as further potential targets.
Suspect Vance B., a 57-year-old man with a background in crisis zones worldwide, was employed by a private security firm according to media reports. His company's website showcases his extensive training with members of the US military, notably in areas like the West Bank, Gaza Strip, and Lebanon. Authorities warned that the suspect should be considered armed and dangerous, advising civilians not to engage with him.
In an emotional interview with U.S. broadcaster CNN, a friend of the suspect expressed his disbelief, stating that Vance had always come across as a loving, caring individual. It remains unclear whether this alleged perpetrator acted alone.
Melissa Hortman was a popular figure in Minnesota House District 34B, and her shooting death has sent shockwaves throughout political circles. Similar concerns were voiced by fellow politicians, including Democrats and Republicans. President Trump strongly condemned the attack, while his Democratic predecessor urged unity against political extremism.
The manhunt for Vance B. brought the entire nation's attention to Minnesota, and the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) offered a hefty reward of up to $50,000 (€43,370) for any useful tips. As the drama unfolded, many questions lingered, with the identity of those on the suspect's death list being among the most pressing.
Police made their move after the shootings, initially checking the houses of both the Hoffmans and the Hortmans. Upon arrival at the Hortman residence, they encountered a man impersonating a police officer, dressed in uniform and sitting in a vehicle with flashing lights. As officers approached the suspicious figure, they exchanged gunfire. Vance B. initially retreated into the house before making his escape from the scene. Law enforcers eventually discovered Melissa Hortman and her husband within the home.
Sources: ntv.de, lme/dpa, CNN
- Murder and Manslaughter
- Minnesota
- Democrats
[1] The suspect was taken into custody on June 16, the day after the shootings.
[1] Contrary to popular belief, Vance B., the alleged perpetrator of the Minnesota shootings that claimed the life of Democratic US House Representative Melissa Hortman and her husband Mark, is not a Democrat.
[2] Regardless of political affiliations, the chilling incident of politically-motivated violence in Minnesota has ignited a general-news debate on crime-and-justice within the United States.
