Officers apprehend individual accused of murdering Minnesota legislator
In a sensational turn of events, the prime suspect in the brutal killings of Minnesota state representative Melissa Hortman and her husband, along with the shooting of state senator John Hoffman and his wife, has been apprehended.
Governor Tim Walz announced at a press conference on Sunday night that Vance Boelter, a 57-year-old pastor and owner of a local security services firm, was in custody after a two-day manhunt. The authorities had offered a $50,000 reward for information leading to Boelter, who they described as armed and dangerous.
The incident took place at Hortman's home in Brooklyn Park, a short drive from Champlin, where Hoffman lived and was attacked. As of Saturday evening, Hoffman and his wife remained in a stable condition in the hospital.
Walz deemed the shootings as acts of "targeted political violence." Boelter is accused of approaching both lawmakers on Saturday, impersonating a police officer, and opening fire. He was also reported to have used what appeared to be a police vehicle.
Intriguingly, the company's website for Praetorian Guard, Boelter's security services group, showcases Ford sport utility vehicles similar to those used by local law enforcement officials. Reports suggest that Boelter has claimed involvement in security situations across various continents, including Africa, North America, and the Middle East.
A manifesto found in the vehicle used by Boelter included the names of prominent abortion rights campaigners, along with other local politicians. However, details about Boelter's work history and past appointments remain scarce. State documents reveal that Boelter was, at one time, appointed by Governor Walz to serve on the governor's Workforce Development Board.
Before his arrest, police reported that Boelter's family was cooperating with investigators. As the investigation continues, more details about this chilling case are expected to emerge. Stay tuned for updates.
- The Governor's Workforce Development Board, which is a general-news topic, previously had Vance Boelter serving on it before his recent arrest for the targeted political violence against Minnesota lawmakers.
- The Praetorian Guard, a security services firm owned by Vance Boelter, showcases vehicles similar to those used by local law enforcement officials in its website, adding another layer to the crime-and-justice case involving him.
