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Police Launch Manhunt For Ex-Tim Walz Appointee Linked To Deadly Minnesota Attacks

A very dark day

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577 points

Police in Minnesota are searching for a man linked to the deadly shootings of two state lawmakers. The suspect, Vance Luther Boelter, 57, is a former appointee of Governor Tim Walz. He was named to the Governor’s Workforce Development Board in 2019.

Authorities believe Boelter may be connected to two shootings that happened early Saturday morning. Senator John Hoffman and his wife were shot at their home in Champlin. Hours later, former House Speaker Melissa Hortman and her husband were shot at their residence in Brooklyn Park. Both scenes are about eight miles apart.

Hoffman and his wife are in critical condition. Hortman and her husband did not survive. Police say both incidents appear to be targeted.

Reports suggest the suspect may have been pretending to be a police officer when he approached the homes. The shooter reportedly entered the homes dressed in a way that made him appear like law enforcement.

After the second shooting, police engaged the suspect in a gunfight, but he got away. He is still at large.

Law enforcement agencies from across the state, including the FBI and SWAT teams, are now involved in a full-scale manhunt. Roads in the area have been closed, and a large area around the crime scenes has been locked down. The shelter-in-place order covers a three-mile zone around the Edinburgh Golf Course.

Brooklyn Park Police reported that a vehicle linked to the suspect was located. Inside it, officers discovered a manifesto and a list of targets. Flyers for “No Kings” protests — which are linked to recent anti-Trump demonstrations — were also found.

Officials have not confirmed a motive but say the two attacks are likely connected. They are investigating the possibility of political motivations, though nothing has been confirmed.

Police described the suspect as a white man with brown hair, wearing black body armor over a blue shirt and blue pants. He may still be impersonating a police officer. Residents are being urged not to open their doors unless two verified officers are present.

Governor Tim Walz issued a public statement on social media. He called the shootings “targeted” and said the state is fully supporting the investigation. He has activated the State Emergency Operations Center to help law enforcement.

Other state leaders also spoke out. Senator Amy Klobuchar called the violence “stunning” and said her thoughts were with the victims and their families.

Mayor Zach Lindstrom of Mounds View said he was shocked by the alert he received and reminded people that violence against elected officials is never acceptable.

Former Congresswoman Gabby Giffords, who survived a shooting herself, said the attack was a threat to democracy. “I am horrified and heartbroken,” she said. “An attack against lawmakers is an attack on American democracy itself.”

Police are asking the public to remain vigilant and report any suspicious activity. Anyone with information about the suspect is urged to contact local authorities immediately.

As of now, Boelter remains at large. The investigation is ongoing, and the search continues.

Featured image via Screengrab

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Terry Lawson

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Terry is an editor and political writer based in Alabama. Over the last five years, he’s worked behind the scenes as a ghostwriter for a range of companies, helping shape voices and tell stories that connect. Now at Political Tribune, he writes sharp political pieces and edits with a close eye on clarity and tone. Terry’s work is driven by strong storytelling, attention to detail, and a clear sense of purpose. He’s skilled in writing, editing, and project management — and always focused on getting the message right. You can find him on X at https://x.com/terrylwsn.

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