Minnesota [US], June 16 (ANI): Vance Boelter, the suspect in the fatal shooting of Minnesota state Representative Melissa Hortman and the attempted assassination of state Senator John Hoffman, was captured Sunday after a nearly 43-hour manhunt, according to US police and local media reports.
Boelter, 57, was arrested near his farm in Green Isle, Minnesota, after a trail camera captured his image on a wooded path. Police confirmed that SWAT teams used the photograph to narrow down his location. He was ultimately located using infrared technology, drones, and helicopters, and was taken into custody without resistance after crawling out of the woods in response to law enforcement commands.
Brooklyn Park Police Chief Mark Bruley described the search as the “largest manhunt in the state’s history,” involving hundreds of detectives and 20 SWAT teams. Law enforcement had earlier discovered Boelter’s abandoned vehicle in rural Sibley County, prompting them to establish a large perimeter and intensify their efforts in the area.
The violent attacks began on Saturday when Boelter, allegedly disguised as a police officer and driving a car outfitted with flashing emergency lights, gained entry to the homes of both lawmakers. He fatally shot Representative Hortman and her husband in Brooklyn Park and subsequently attacked Senator Hoffman and his wife Yvette in Champlin. The couple is currently recovering in the hospital.
Authorities believe the attacks could have continued had police not proactively responded to the scene. Minnesota Department of Public Safety Superintendent Drew Evans stated that the swift police response likely prevented further casualties.
During the investigation, a search of Boelter’s vehicle revealed a hit list of prominent Minnesota Democrats, including Governor Tim Walz, U.S. Representative Ilhan Omar, U.S. Senator Tina Smith, and state Attorney General Keith Ellison, according to law enforcement sources cited by ABC News.
Boelter is now charged with two counts of second-degree murder and two counts of second-degree attempted murder, according to a criminal complaint obtained by the Minnesota Star Tribune. If convicted of the killings, he faces a maximum sentence of 40 years per count, with a mandatory minimum of three years. For the attempted murders, the penalty could extend to 20 years per count.
Sources also noted that Boelter was reportedly wearing a latex mask during the attacks. His online biography identifies him as a husband and father with extensive experience in military and security operations.
Investigations remain ongoing as law enforcement continues to assess potential threats and motives. (ANI)
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