Suspect in shooting of Minnesota lawmakers pursued in ongoing US manhunt.
A large-scale manhunt is underway in the United States for Vance Luther Boelter, a 57-year-old man identified as a suspect in the tragic killing of prominent Minnesota Democratic politician Melissa Hortman and her husband, Mark. This tragic incident unfolded on Saturday morning at the couple’s residence in Brooklyn Park, a suburb just outside Minneapolis. Authorities have classified the events as a politically motivated assassination, prompting a strong response from local and national leaders.
In addition to Hortman’s death, Boelter is alleged to have shot and wounded another Democratic lawmaker, Senator John Hoffman, and his wife, Yvette, in a separate attack approximately nine miles away in Champlin. Following the shootings, Boelter abandoned a vehicle resembling a police SUV and fled on foot, leading law enforcement to express concerns about his potential danger to the public. During the search, officials discovered a manifesto and a list of names that included other politicians and institutions, further intensifying the gravity of the situation.
Authorities, including the Minnesota Bureau of Criminal Apprehension and the FBI, have placed Boelter on a watchlist and are urging the public to report any sightings. The FBI has issued a reward of up to ,000 for information that could lead to his capture. Superintendent Drew Evans stated that it is still too early to ascertain the motive behind the attacks, though a source indicated that Boelter’s writings contained references targeting lawmakers who have supported abortion rights.
A former political appointee, Boelter previously served on the same state workforce development board as Senator Hoffman. His background includes professional experience in security contracting across the Middle East and Africa and managerial roles in various Minnesota companies. Several acquaintances have reported unsettling texts he sent shortly after the shootings, suggesting a troubled state of mind and a heartfelt apology for the distress caused.
In the wake of this incident, Minnesota’s Governor Tim Walz has remembered Hortman, who dedicated 20 years of her life to public service, as a figure of grace and compassion. Governor Walz urged citizens across the nation to unite against political violence, a sentiment echoed by various leaders who recognize the urgent need for discourse and safety in a politically charged environment. In a statement, a former president condemned the violence while celebrating the resilience of the people of Minnesota.
Recent years have witnessed an increase in attacks on political figures, reflecting a climate of heightened political tensions across the United States. Notably, security concerns have led to requests for enhanced protective measures for lawmakers nationwide, showcasing the need for vigilance and solidarity among elected officials and the communities they serve.
The ongoing search serves as a poignant reminder of the challenges posed by political violence and the imperative for unity in pursuit of peaceful dialogue within a diverse and democratic society.
#PoliticsNews #WorldNews
