Federal Charges Filed Against Suspect in Minnesota Lawmakers' Fatal Shooting

Vance Boelter, accused of killing Minnesota lawmaker Melissa Hortman and her husband, is indicted on six federal charges, including stalking and murder, potentially facing life imprisonment or the death penalty.

The suspect charged in the fatal shooting of a Minnesota lawmaker and her husband has been indicted on multiple federal offenses. Vance Boelter, 57, faces six charges, including stalking and murder, according to the announcement from the state's attorney general. This incident, which unfolded in June, led to a two-day manhunt before Boelter's arrest on June 16.

Boelter remains in custody and is also dealing with state-level charges. He has not yet entered a plea. Prosecutors allege that Boelter was involved in separate attacks on two other Minnesota lawmakers, indicating a broader pattern of violence. Acting U.S. Attorney Joseph H. Thompson described the shootings as a "night of terror" that profoundly impacted Minnesota's community, characterizing Boelter’s actions as politically motivated assassinations.

Court documents reveal that Boelter had done extensive research on his victims. He reportedly approached the home of Senator John Hoffman and his wife, Yvette, dressed as a police officer. Upon their greeting, he fatally shot Senator Hoffman nine times and his wife eight times, even attempting to target their daughter. After this attack, he proceeded to the homes of other Minnesota officials before fatally shooting the Hortman couple.

Boelter was detained near his family's home, situated in a wooded area west of Minneapolis, just two days post the shootings. Allegations have surfaced that he expressed intentions for more extensive violence, which law enforcement was able to thwart. Prosecutors further disclosed a letter where Boelter claims Minnesota's Governor Tim Walz instructed him to kill U.S. Senators Amy Klobuchar and Tina Smith — a statement both prosecutors and Governor Walz have categorically denied. The community is now faced with the repercussions of this devastating event and the ongoing legal proceedings against Boelter.