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Suspect in Minnesota Lawmaker Shootings Faces State and Federal Murder Charges

Notebooks found in a police-style SUV list more than 45 political targets in what investigators call a long-term assassination campaign.

ST PAUL, MINNESOTA - JUNE 16: A woman lays flowers at a makeshift memorial for DFL State Rep. Melissa Hortman and her husband Mark Hortman at the Minnesota State Capitol building on June 16, 2025 in St. Paul, Minnesota. Law enforcement agencies captured a suspect in the killing of DFL State Rep. Melissa Hortman and her husband, Mark Hortman, who were shot at their home on June 14th. DFL State Sen. John Hoffman and his wife were also shot and hospitalized in a separate incident. Minnesota Gov. Tim Walz said during a press conference that the shooting "appears to be a politically motivated assassination." (Photo by Steven Garcia/Getty Images)
ST PAUL, MINNESOTA - JUNE 16:  A makeshift memorial for DFL State Rep. Melissa Hortman and her husband Mark Hortman is seen at the Minnesota State Capitol building on June 16, 2025 in St. Paul, Minnesota. Law enforcement agencies captured a suspect in the killing of DFL State Rep. Melissa Hortman and her husband, Mark Hortman, who were shot at their home on June 14th. DFL State Sen. John Hoffman and his wife were also shot and hospitalized in a separate incident. Minnesota Gov. Tim Walz said during a press conference that the shooting "appears to be a politically motivated assassination." (Photo by Steven Garcia/Getty Images)
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Overview

  • Vance Luther Boelter, 57, was arrested after a 43-hour manhunt and charged with two counts of second-degree murder and two counts of attempted murder at the state level and faces six federal charges that could carry the death penalty.
  • Investigators recovered notebooks in Boelter’s Ford SUV detailing strategic plans and naming over 45 potential targets, many of whom support abortion rights.
  • Authorities say Boelter used a police-style vehicle and uniform to approach victims’ homes, enabling him to stalk and attack lawmakers under the guise of law enforcement.
  • Federal officials describe the shootings as part of a long-term campaign against political enemies, and they found multiple firearms and large quantities of ammunition in his vehicle.
  • Authorities are examining Boelter’s personal network and items found with his wife, including $10,000 in cash and passports, to determine whether others were involved or aware of his plans.