Authorities have identified 57-year-old Vance Boelter as the suspect in the tragic shootings of Minnesota state lawmakers Melissa Hortman and John Hoffman, along with their spouses. The incidents have left Hortman and her husband dead, while Hoffman and his wife are currently recovering from serious injuries.
On Saturday morning, Boelter was residing part-time at a home on the 4800 block of Fremont Avenue in Minneapolis. According to reports, he sent alarming texts to his roommates, stating, “I made some bad choices, I may be dead soon.” These messages have raised concerns about his mental state and the nature of his actions.
In the wake of the shootings, FOX 9 has uncovered more information about Boelter, who has a long-standing history in the community. His roommates revealed that he expressed love for them in his final messages, stating, "I love you guys both. I’m sorry for all the trouble this has caused." This shocking revelation adds a layer of complexity to the motive behind the shootings.
In response to the shootings, police executed a search warrant at the rental home where Boelter was staying. Utilizing battering rams, they gained entry and discovered evidence linking him to the crime, including receipts for items used in the shootings found in one of his vehicles. Witnesses also reported that Boelter had broken a window at the home, but whether he fled in one of his vehicles remains unclear. Surveillance footage captured Boelter wearing a cowboy hat, assisting authorities in their ongoing search.
Rep. Melissa Hortman, 55, and her husband, Mark Hortman, 58, were both tragically killed in the incident. Following the attack, authorities confirmed that Sen. John Hoffman and his wife were injured but are currently in recovery after undergoing surgery. Minnesota Governor Tim Walz expressed condolences during a press conference, stating that they remain cautiously optimistic about Hoffman’s recovery.
Here is a detailed timeline of the events surrounding the shootings:
2:00 a.m. - A 911 call is made from Champlin regarding the shootings involving Sen. Hoffman and his wife. 3:35 a.m. - Police approach Rep. Hortman’s home and encounter Boelter, who opens fire on officers before fleeing. 5:30 a.m. - A shelter-in-place alert is issued for a three-mile radius around the Edinburgh Golf Course. 9:45 a.m. - Governor Walz announces the deaths of Melissa and Mark Hortman. 1:00 p.m. - Authorities identify Vance Boelter as the main suspect and urge the public to assist in locating him. 4:00 p.m. - The FBI announces a reward of $50,000 for information leading to Boelter’s arrest.In light of the violence, local authorities have advised citizens to avoid attending any political rallies until Boelter is apprehended. They have assured the public that there is no ongoing threat to safety in the Champlin area.
This incident has sparked outrage and concern across Minnesota, prompting leaders and politicians to react and call for unity in the face of such senseless violence. Public safety remains a top priority as investigations continue into the motives behind this tragic event.
The investigation into the shootings involving Vance Boelter is ongoing, with authorities working diligently to gather more information. As the community mourns, many are left seeking answers and justice for the victims. Stay tuned for further updates as this story develops.
