Minnesota authorities say Vance Luther Boelter, accused of killing State Rep. Melissa Hortman and her husband, had planned attacks on multiple lawmakers and carried a list of over 45 elected officials.
ST. PAUL — A Minnesota man accused of killing State Rep. Melissa Hortman and her husband also attempted to murder two other lawmakers, federal officials revealed on Monday.
Vance Luther Boelter, 57, allegedly disguised himself as a police officer and carried out a targeted attack that left Senator John Hoffman and his wife, Yvette, seriously injured. “This is the police, open the door,” he shouted, wearing a silicone mask and shining a flashlight, according to U.S. Attorney Joseph H. Thompson.
Boelter is charged with two federal counts each of stalking, murder, and firearms violations — potentially earning the death penalty. He also faces state murder charges.
Authorities say Boelter conducted detailed surveillance of lawmakers’ homes, planned a broader attack, and carried a list of 45 elected officials.
“This is a chilling attack on our democracy,” Thompson said. Boelter was arrested after a two-day manhunt. His next court hearing is June 27.