Authorities are investigating a vehicle discovered on a rural road near Minneapolis, which is believed to have been used by 57-year-old Vance Boelter, the suspect in the shooting of two Democratic lawmakers, resulting in one death. Former House Speaker Melissa Hortman and her husband, Mark, were tragically killed in their Brooklyn Park home early on Saturday. Senator John Hoffman and his wife, Yvette, sustained injuries at their Champlin residence, approximately 15 kilometres away.
Boelter reportedly disguised himself as a police officer and modified his vehicle to resemble a police car. He remains at large after fleeing on foot following a confrontation with law enforcement outside Hortman’s home. The FBI has offered a reward of up to US$50,000 (around A$77,000) for information leading to his capture and has circulated a photo of him wearing a tan cowboy hat, requesting public assistance in locating him.
In the investigation, authorities found a cowboy hat near the vehicle, and law enforcement officers combed nearby areas for further clues. The search, taking place in Sibley County, around 80 kilometres southwest of Minneapolis, included issuing emergency alerts to local residents to secure their homes and vehicles. A large police presence was observed near the abandoned vehicle, where items had been discarded and doors were left open.
US Senator Amy Klobuchar expressed concern for public safety, stating the community is on edge, given Boelter’s violent potential. This surge in political violence has echoed widespread national concern, as political leaders have increasingly faced threats amid growing divisions within society, prompting lawmakers to voice their fears.
Tributes have poured in for Hortman, with colourful flowers and messages placed at the Minnesota State Capitol in her memory, highlighting her significant impact as a leader. Friends and colleagues described her as a powerful negotiator who brought people together. Meanwhile, the Hoffmans are currently recovering from their injuries.
Although the authorities have yet to establish a clear motive for Boelter’s actions, reports indicate that writings discovered in the makeshift police vehicle included a list of prominent state and federal lawmakers and abortion rights advocates, raising alarms among political circles. Boelter had previously served on the state workforce development board alongside Hoffman, but the depth of their connection remains unclear.
On Saturday morning, Boelter sent a cryptic message to friends expressing regret for his actions, leaving a chilling note of his intentions. This initiation of violence unfolded following reports of gunfire at the Hoffmans’ home, leading to a chaotic encounter with police, after which Boelter escaped.
Governor Tim Walz commemorated Hortman’s legacy, acknowledging her as a transformative figure in the state’s political landscape. As this situation continues to unfold, both the investigation and its implications for community safety remain subjects of significant concern.