Vance Boelter, Murders & Assaults, Minnesota 2025
MINNEAPOLIS – A night of terror shook Minnesota to its core when Vance Boelter, 57, embarked on a murderous rampage targeting Minnesota's elected officials and their families.According to court documents, after extensive research and planning, Boelter disguised himself as a member of law enforcement and traveled to the homes of Democratic elected officials with the intent to intimidate and murder. On June 14, 2025, the defendant traveled to the homes of Democratic elected officials.
Boelter then traveled to the homes of two other Minnesota elected officials, only to find that no one at those locations was home. He next drove to the home of Speaker Emerita and Representative Melissa Hortman. There, Boelter repeatedly shot, and killed, Representative Hortman and her husband, Mark.
Following a two-day manhunt, law enforcement arrested the defendant near his family residence in Green Isle, Minnesota. The defendant is charged with numerous counts, including the stalking and murders of Melissa and Mark Hortman, the stalking and shooting of John and Yvette Hoffman, and the attempted shooting of Hope Hoffman.
The defendant faces charges which include maximum penalties of up to life in prison or death. Vance Boelter, the defendant, will be held accountable for his crimes. This case highlights the collaboration between local, state, and federal law enforcement agencies that worked tirelessly to bring the defendant to justice.
Today, a grand jury indicted Boelter with the most serious of federal charges for these heinous political assassinations. Let me be clear: Boelter will see justice. The FBI remains grateful to our federal, state, and local law enforcement partners for their dedication throughout this investigation. Together, we will ensure that justice is served and that a price is paid for the reign of terror and violence our community endured.
Vance Boelter's evil acts did unspeakable harm and terrorized our entire state that night. A lot of work has been happening and we are glad to see these next steps taken toward holding Mr. Boelter accountable for his actions. Political violence has no place in our society, and Boelter will be held accountable for his crimes.
Key Facts
- State: Minnesota
- Category: Violent Crime
- Source: DOJ Press Release â†â€â€
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