Minnesota authorities have captured Vance Luther Boelter, the security CEO accused of assassinating a state lawmaker and her husband, after a massive two-day manhunt described as “the largest in the state’s history.”
Key Takeaways
- Vance Boelter, 57, was arrested after an extensive manhunt involving drones and SWAT teams following the assassination of state House DFL Leader Melissa Hortman and attempted murder of state Sen. John Hoffman.
- Boelter, CEO of Red Lion Group security company in the Democratic Republic of Congo, was found with a list targeting Democratic and pro-choice politicians and had posed as a police officer during the attacks.
- The suspect has an extensive international background in security operations across Africa, the Middle East, and Eastern Europe, and was previously appointed to Minnesota government positions.
- Authorities described the incident as a “politically motivated assassination,” with Boelter facing two counts of second-degree murder and two counts of second-degree attempted murder.
- Before the attacks, Boelter had texted roommates that he might be “dead soon” and mentioned financial hardships, suggesting premeditation of his actions.
Unprecedented Manhunt Ends With Capture
The arrest of Vance Luther Boelter concluded what Brooklyn Park Police Chief Mark Bruley called “the largest manhunt in the state’s history.” The 57-year-old security company CEO was apprehended in rural Sibley County, Minnesota, following a collaborative effort between the FBI and Minnesota state police. The search operation deployed significant resources, including drones and SWAT teams, to locate the suspect who had been on the run for two days after allegedly committing a targeted political assassination that shocked the state and nation.
Boelter stands accused of posing as a law enforcement officer when he allegedly assassinated state House DFL Leader Melissa Hortman and her husband, Mark, while also shooting and injuring state Sen. John Hoffman and his wife, Yvette. Surveillance footage confirmed Boelter was dressed as a police officer during the attacks, demonstrating a calculated approach to gaining access to his targets. The suspect now faces two counts of second-degree murder and two counts of second-degree attempted murder.
International Security Background Raises Concerns
The investigation has revealed Boelter’s extensive international connections through his role as CEO of the Red Lion Group, a security company based in the Democratic Republic of Congo. His professional background spans multiple continents, with security operations experience in Eastern Europe, Africa, North America, and the Middle East. This international security expertise likely contributed to the complexity of the manhunt and raises questions about how his professional skills may have been utilized in planning the attacks.
“The largest manhunt in the state’s history,” said Brooklyn Park Police Chief Mark Bruley.
Boelter and his wife, Jenny, also operate Praetorian Guard Security Services, a Minnesota-based security company. His LinkedIn profile and public records indicate a varied career that includes roles in food service management at companies like 7-Eleven, Del Monte, Johnsonville Sausage, and Greencore. Beyond his business ventures, Boelter had established connections with government officials, having been appointed to Minnesota government positions by Democratic governors in 2016 and 2019, despite reportedly being a supporter of President Trump.
Evidence of Premeditated Political Targeting
When authorities searched Boelter’s vehicle, they discovered firearms and a list containing names and addresses of public officials, primarily targeting Democratic and pro-choice politicians. This evidence suggests a premeditated plan potentially aimed at multiple targets. While investigators have not found a formal manifesto, the list strongly indicates political motivation behind the attacks. Boelter’s wife was initially detained for questioning but was later released as authorities worked to understand the full scope of his motives.
“One man’s unthinkable actions have altered the State of Minnesota,” said Gov. Tim Walz.
Text messages sent by Boelter to roommates before the attacks indicated he might be “dead soon” and referenced financial hardships, suggesting he may have viewed the attack as a final act. The suspect was described as a 6-foot-1 white male, last seen wearing a cowboy hat and dark shirt during the manhunt. His capture brings some closure to a community left in shock by the brazen political assassination that coincided with a military parade in Washington, D.C., and “No Kings” protests elsewhere in the country.
National Response to Political Violence
The assassination has drawn condemnation from officials across the political spectrum. Minnesota Governor Tim Walz described the incident as a “politically motivated assassination” and called for Americans to recommit to core values of civility and grace. President Trump acknowledged being briefed on the “terrible shooting” and reinforced that such violence will not be tolerated in the United States. The bipartisan denunciation reflects the severity of an attack targeting elected officials.
Communities across Minnesota have organized memorials and fundraisers for the victims as the state processes this shocking act of violence. The incident has prompted renewed discussions about political tensions and the potential for violence in an increasingly divided nation. With Boelter now in custody, investigators will focus on building their case and understanding the full extent of his plans, including whether additional attacks were intended against other officials on his list.
