The manhunt is over.
Vance Boelter, 57, was apprehended Sunday in Sibley County following an intense two-day manhunt. Authorities allege he fatally shot former Minnesota House Speaker Melissa Hortman and her husband, Mark, in their Brooklyn Park residence early Saturday. He is also accused of injuring State Senator John Hoffman and his wife, Yvette, in a separate shooting at their Champlin home. Law enforcement sources confirmed his arrest, and he reportedly identified himself to officers in the area.
The search for Boelter involved an extensive multi-agency operation, with over 20 SWAT teams deployed—the largest manhunt in Minnesota history, according to Brooklyn Park Police Chief Mark Bruley. The suspect was ultimately located crawling toward law enforcement officers and taken into custody without further incident. Authorities have stated there is no evidence suggesting he had any accomplices.
Boelter now faces four felony charges issued by the Hennepin County District Court: two counts of second-degree murder for the deaths of Melissa and Mark Hortman, and two counts of attempted second-degree murder for the shootings of Senator Hoffman and his wife. Each charge carries a potential sentence of up to 40 years in prison, with a minimum of three years due to the use of a firearm. Governor Tim Walz commended the bravery of the Hoffman family, especially their daughter Hope, for actions he said prevented further loss of life.
The criminal complaint outlines a chilling sequence of events. Around 2:05 a.m., Champlin Police responded to a 911 call about a masked intruder who shot two individuals. Surveillance footage showed a man—later identified as Boelter—wearing tactical gear and impersonating a police officer before opening fire. Less than two hours later, officers in Brooklyn Park responded to another call, where they witnessed the fatal shooting of one victim through an open door. Both Hortmans were found dead inside.
Further investigation revealed Boelter had an arsenal in his possession, including multiple firearms, tactical gear, and a list of other public officials. A 9mm handgun, several AK-47 rifles, and law enforcement-style accessories were found in his vehicle. Police later recovered additional evidence near his residence. Boelter’s bail has been set at $5 million, and authorities continue to examine the contents of his vehicle and home to determine the extent of his intentions.
