Authorities have identified Vance Boelter, 57, as the suspect in the shooting deaths of State Rep. Melissa Hortman and her husband, Mark, and the wounding of State Sen. John Hoffman and his wife, Yvette. Boelter, who was last seen in Minneapolis, was reportedly dressed like a police officer at the time of the shootings, wearing a light-colored cowboy hat, a dark-colored long-sleeved collared shirt or jacket, light pants, and carrying a dark bag.
Photos shared by law enforcement show Boelter wearing a cowboy hat and a latex mask that makes him appear bald. He is described as 6 feet, 1 inch tall, weighing roughly 220 pounds, with brown hair and brown eyes. Authorities have urged the public to call 911 if they spot Boelter and not to approach him as he is considered armed and dangerous.
It is unclear whether Boelter knew his victims, but there was some overlap in public meetings attended by Boelter and Sen. Hoffman. Boelter had previously served on the state workforce development board alongside Hoffman.
There is no update on Sen. Hoffman’s condition as of Saturday afternoon. Authorities have not yet determined a motive for the attacks, but writings found inside Boelter’s vehicle are being investigated.
Reports suggest that Boelter may have had ties to an armed security company, though details have not been disclosed. Flyers found in his vehicle referenced the “No Kings” political rallies taking place across the country on Saturday against President Donald Trump.
The FBI is offering a reward of up to $50,000 for information leading to Boelter’s arrest and conviction. Anyone with information about the shootings or Boelter’s whereabouts is urged to contact the Minnesota Department of Public Safety’s Bureau of Criminal Apprehension tip line at 877-996-6222 or email bca.tips@state.mn.us.
