Vance Boelter Named as Suspect in Minnesota Lawmakers’ Shootings
Vance Luther Boelter, 57, is identified as the suspect in the shooting deaths of Minnesota lawmakers Melissa Hortman and John Hoffman. Boelter has a background in armed security across multiple regions and held public service roles under Governor Tim Walz. Authorities are conducting a manhunt amid fears of broader threats, having discovered a manifesto in Boelter’s vehicle detailing potential targets.
In a shocking turn of events, Vance Luther Boelter, a 57-year-old man, has been named the primary suspect in the shooting deaths of two Minnesota lawmakers. The victims, Representative Melissa Hortman and Senator John Hoffman, were targeted at their respective homes early Saturday morning. Reports indicate that at approximately 2:00 AM, Hortman and her spouse were fatally shot, and just two hours later, Hoffman and his wife were seriously injured during an attack on their home around 4:00 AM.
Boelter, whose background includes armed security experience across various regions like the Middle East and Africa, has a notable history of public service. His biography states he worked with Praetorian Guard Security Services, emphasizing his extensive training alongside both private firms and U.S. military personnel. The biography suggests, “He brings a great security aspect forged by both many on the ground experiences combined with training by both private security firms and by people in the US Military.”
Before today’s chilling events, he served on the Governor’s Workforce Development Board, working closely with Governor Tim Walz. His tenure spanned from June 2016 to June 2018 and then again from December 2019 until January 2023. Appointed by Governor Walz both times, Boelter held positions that helped guide workforce development in Minnesota.
In addition to his public service, Boelter was the CEO of the Red Lion Group, an entity based in the Democratic Republic of Congo which has now deleted its online presence. His LinkedIn profile indicates he had been in Congo for “private business projects” since December 2021, but recently updated it to reflect his return to the United States. Boelter is reportedly seeking opportunities in the food industry, specifying potential locations including Texas and Minnesota.
Boelter has expressed his political views in the past, notably encouraging voting in the 2020 elections, underscoring the value of participation within the democratic process. “I will just say they were not places that anyone of us would want to live in if we had any choice in the matter,” he stated to emphasize the importance of voting based on personal values.
As it currently stands, the police are actively searching for Boelter following the shootings. The investigation revealed that a shadowy assailant may have posed as an officer to gain access to Hoffman’s home. A comprehensive manhunt is underway, with local authorities and the FBI involved. SWAT teams were deployed to the neighborhood where the shootings took place, heightening the urgency as Boelter remains at large.
During a press briefing, police outlined their investigations into the possibility of multiple shooters. Brooklyn Park Police Chief Mark Bruley disclosed that Boelter’s vehicle contained a “manifesto” that detailed targeted individuals, including both lawmakers. The unsettling discovery also revealed plans for an upcoming anti-Trump rally. The chief added, “we immediately made alerts to the state, who took action, providing security where necessary.”
Authorities emphasize public safety, urging Minnesotans to avoid attending any related protests until the situation is under control. With nearly 70 names on the list found within Boelter’s vehicle, officials continue to sift through potential threats. Items recovered from the car included a Father’s Day card and ammunition, further complicating this already tragic narrative. The situation remains fluid, and police are urging anyone with information to come forward as the investigation continues.
The developments surrounding Vance Boelter, who has been named in the tragic shootings of two Minnesota lawmakers, highlight a complex narrative involving a man with substantial security experience and a history of public service. His alleged actions have prompted extensive investigations and a manhunt, as law enforcement continues to assess public safety amidst fears of further violence linked to his potential motives. Authorities are urging caution as they work to resolve the situation, emphasizing the need for community vigilance in the wake of the shootings.
Original Source: www.dailymail.co.uk
