Suspect Identified In Shooting Of 2 Minnesota Lawmakers

A man suspected of shooting two Minnesota lawmakers inside their homes early Saturday morning while disguised as a police officer has been identified by authorities.

At a press conference, Vance Boelter, 57, was named as the suspect in the shooting deaths of State Rep. Melissa Hortman (D) and her husband, Mark, as well as the injuring of State Sen. John Hoffman (D) and his wife, Yvette.

Authorities stated that Boelter was last seen in Minneapolis wearing a light-colored cowboy hat, a dark-colored long-sleeved collared shirt or jacket, light pants, and carrying a dark bag.

Law enforcement shared various photos of the suspect wearing the cowboy hat and a latex mask that made him appear bald.

Described as 6 feet, 1 inch tall, weighing around 220 pounds, with brown hair and brown eyes, Boelter is considered armed and dangerous.

Superintendent Drew Evans of the Minnesota Bureau of Criminal Apprehension urged the public to call 911 if they spot Boelter and advised against approaching him.

It remains unclear if anyone else was involved, and the motive behind the attacks is yet to be determined based on writings found in the suspect’s vehicle.

Boelter, who previously served on the state workforce development board along with Sen. Hoffman, was reported to have attended some of the same public meetings.

As of Saturday afternoon, there was no update on Sen. Hoffman’s condition.

Reports suggested that Boelter had ties to an armed security company, and flyers found in his vehicle referenced political rallies against President Donald Trump.

The FBI is offering a reward of up to $50,000 for information leading to Boelter’s arrest and conviction.

For any information regarding the shootings or Boelter’s whereabouts, individuals are 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.