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The intense manhunt for the Minnesota suspect accused of shooting two Democratic lawmakers and their spouses has entered its second day, prompting authorities to explore all possible avenues. The Federal Bureau of Investigation is actively offering a $50,000 reward for information that leads to the capture of the suspect identified as 57-year-old Vance L. Boelter.
On Saturday morning, Boelter allegedly shot and killed former Minnesota House Speaker Melissa Hortman and her husband, Mark, in their Brooklyn Park residence. Meanwhile, State Senator John Hoffman and his wife, Yvette, were shot and wounded in their home located approximately nine miles away in Champlin.
ATF Special Agent-in-Charge for the St. Paul Field Division, Travis Riddle, expressed his confidence during a Fox News appearance, stating that he is “absolutely” certain the alleged shooter will be apprehended soon.
Riddle noted, “I want to speak on behalf of all ATF members when I say that we all grieve the victims of this senseless tragedy. As far as where we stand at this point, we’re still actively seeking the suspect in conjunction with our local, state and federal partners. Potentially, there’s always a threat. He is considered armed and dangerous. At this point, we don’t know what his access is to additional weapons.”
The Investigation Expands
Authorities reportedly halted a vehicle carrying Boelter’s wife along with three other relatives near Onamia, Minnesota, on Saturday. According to reports, officers recovered a weapon, ammunition, cash, and passports from the vehicle. Boelter’s wife was detained for questioning, though no formal arrest occurred. As of Sunday morning, it remains unclear if she is still in custody.
Riddle reiterated on Fox News that the investigation continues, emphasizing that all possible leads are being pursued diligently.
He condemned the shootings as acts of political violence, remarking, “The violent assault targeting the Minnesota legislature is deeply troubling and is wholly unacceptable. Such acts of violence and intimidation threaten our democracy and have absolutely no place in our political system or in our communities.”
An Intensive Effort by Law Enforcement
Hundreds of law enforcement officers are now engaged in the search for the suspect. Minnesota Bureau of Criminal Apprehension Deputy Director Drew Evans provided updates during a news conference, emphasizing the cooperative efforts among various law enforcement agencies. Boelter is described as a White male approximately six-foot-one-inches tall, weighing about 220 pounds, with brown hair and brown eyes. He was last seen at a business location in the Twin Cities area, dressed in a light-colored cowboy hat, dark long-sleeved outerwear, and light-colored pants.
As investigators work tirelessly, they believe Boelter may be trying to escape the area.
If anyone spots him, they are urged to contact local authorities immediately and not to approach the suspect.
Findings at the Scene
Authorities reported that a manifesto was discovered at the shooting scene. However, Evans cautioned against premature conclusions regarding its contents and the motivations behind these violent acts.
Using the identification found at the scene, investigators successfully identified Boelter as the suspect. They utilized the eTrace system to trace firearms left behind, aiding in the investigation.
Eyewitness accounts describe a chaotic scene during the initial response. Riddle explained how officers engaged in an exchange of gunfire when they arrived at the second residence, leading to the suspect’s escape undetected. “There was only a couple of officers who responded, so while they were seeking cover and also trying to render aid to victims, the suspect was able to flee from the residence undetected,” he stated.
Riddle remarked, “He got lucky. I don’t think his tactical expertise would have surpassed law enforcement response.”
Undisclosed Motives and Broader Impacts
Authorities have not yet disclosed a specific motive behind the shootings. Notably, both targeted lawmakers had previously crossed party lines to vote against extending free healthcare for undocumented immigrants just days before the attack.
Moreover, Riddle confirmed that controversial materials labeled as “No Kings” fliers were found in Boelter’s vehicle, raising concerns about possible motivations tied to political extremism.
Political Leaders Respond
President Donald Trump commented on the situation on Saturday, affirming that he had been briefed on the “terrible shooting that took place in Minnesota, which appears to be a targeted attack against state lawmakers.” He emphasized that U.S. Attorney General Pam Bondi and the FBI are investigating the incident and will pursue legal action against anyone involved to the fullest extent.
He stated, “Such horrific violence will not be tolerated in the United States of America. God Bless the great people of Minnesota, a truly great place!”
California Representative Nancy Pelosi also reacted to the Minnesota shootings, expressing her heartache over the “targeted shootings in the homes of MN Senator Hoffman, Speaker Emerita Hortman, and their spouses,” which she described as a shocking manifestation of political violence.
She stated, “Unfortunately, we know the tragedy of when political violence hits home very well. All of us must remember that it’s not only the act of violence, but also the reaction to it, that can normalize it.”
Pelosi added, “This climate of politically motivated violence must end. Our prayers go out to the families of the victims, their friends and supporters in Minnesota with the certainty that the assassin in this heinous act will be prosecuted to the fullest extent of the law.”
