Minnesota man Vance Boelter, accused of assassination, plans to enter a not guilty plea.

In a shocking case that has captivated the nation, Vance Boelter, the man accused of fatally shooting Minnesota lawmakers and their spouses, is anticipated to enter a plea of not guilty at his arraignment scheduled for Thursday in federal court, according to his attorney. Boelter faces multiple serious charges, including six counts of murder, stalking, and firearms violations, linked to the violent incidents that occurred in mid-June.

The alleged attacks were politically motivated and left significant repercussions not only within the local community but also across the state. The victims, State Representative Melissa Hortman and Senator John Hoffman, both of whom are Democrats, were targeted along with their spouses. Law enforcement agencies have provided detailed accounts of the events, indicating that Boelter approached Hoffman’s residence under the pretense of being a police officer in the early morning hours of June 14.

Upon gaining access to the home, he opened fire, wounding Senator Hoffman nine times and shooting his wife, Yvette Hoffman, eight times as she attempted to shield their daughter from the barrage of gunfire. Approximately 90 minutes later, a similar fate befell Rep. Hortman and her husband, Mark, when Boelter arrived at their Brooklyn Park home, approximately eight miles from the Hoffman residence. Both were struck in the attack and subsequently pronounced dead at the scene; the couple’s family dog was also reported to have succumbed to injuries.

Following the initial onslaught, the Hoffmans were rushed to a local hospital, where they underwent surgeries. Both have since been released and are purportedly recovering at home. They were fortunate to have survived, contrasting sharply with the fate of the Hortmans.

Investigators revealed that prior to targeting these lawmakers, Boelter had visited two other legislators’ homes but did not engage with them. His evasion of law enforcement lasted several days until he was apprehended, culminating in what Brooklyn Park Police Chief Mark Bruley characterized as the largest manhunt in Minnesota history. Notably, Boelter utilized a black SUV equipped with emergency lights to mislead his victims into believing he was part of law enforcement.

Upon searching the vehicle, authorities found flyers related to a protest movement, as well as a manifesto and an extensive hit list featuring 45 names. Prosecutors additionally disclosed a handwritten letter addressed to an FBI official that includes a confession but lacks clarity regarding his motives.

This incident continues to raise serious questions about political violence and public safety, as communities reflect on the tragic events that unfolded on that fateful day in June.