Minnesota assassination suspect Vance Boelter on the run; had dozens of Democrats on list, sources say

Authorities have identified 57-year-old Vance Luther Boelter as the suspected gunman in a targeted act of violence that resulted in the shooting and killing of State Rep. Melissa Hortman and the shooting and wounding of State Sen. John Hoffman. Boelter is said to have served on a state board alongside Hoffman, although it is still under investigation whether he knew the victims prior to the shootings.

The suspect, impersonating a police officer, was captured in a photo at one of the lawmakers’ homes early Saturday. Reports suggest that he was wearing a latex mask to conceal his identity during the attack. Boelter, a husband and father, has a background in security and military training, having worked with the private security firm Praetorian Guard Security Services based in the Twin Cities area.

Boelter’s extensive experience in security, including work in Eastern Europe, Africa, North America, and the Middle East, has been highlighted on his professional profile. Praetorian Guard Security Services, where Boelter held a leadership position, specializes in armed security services using law enforcement-grade vehicles.

In addition to his security background, Boelter has been involved in state politics, serving on the Minnesota Governor’s Workforce Development Board. His appointment to this board was based on his integrity, judgment, and abilities, as recognized by former Governor Mark Dayton and current Governor Tim Walz.

Furthermore, Boelter’s interest in electoral outcomes was evident from his social media posts urging civic engagement. The suspect’s vehicle, resembling a police car, was found at the scene of the crime, and a list of potential targets was recovered from the vehicle, including names of prominent Democratic figures and abortion providers.

Law enforcement sources have revealed that Boelter had a list of Minnesota Democrats as potential targets, which included Gov. Tim Walz, U.S. Rep. Ilhan Omar, U.S. Sen. Tina Smith, and state Attorney General Keith Ellison. Security measures have been implemented to protect those named on the list, with the Capitol Police coordinating efforts with federal, state, and local agencies.

The shootings occurred in the early hours of Saturday, with Hoffman and his wife being targeted at their home in Champlin. Following the incident, police located the suspect at Hortman’s residence in Brooklyn Park, dressed as a police officer. A confrontation ensued, resulting in gunfire and the suspect fleeing the scene.

Governor Walz condemned the violence, emphasizing the importance of civil discourse in resolving differences. He reassured the public that efforts to bring those responsible to justice would be relentless. The community remains on high alert as investigations continue into this tragic incident.