Federal Grand Jury Indicts Suspect in Minnesota Lawmakers' Fatal Shooting Spree

Vance Boelter has been federally indicted on multiple charges, including murder and stalking, for the politically motivated assassination of Minnesota state Rep. Melissa Hortman and the killing of her husband, Mark Hortman. Boelter also shot state Sen. John Hoffman and his wife, Yvette, and attempted to shoot their daughter, Hope Hoffman, in a series of attacks targeting Democratic lawmakers while impersonating a police officer. Prosecutors have noted the unprecedented nature of these political killings in Minnesota and have kept the option of seeking the death penalty open. Boelter denies motivations related to political or pro-life issues, suggesting that more information will emerge in time. The attacks triggered a manhunt culminating in Boelter’s arrest, and he faces both federal and state charges, with potential life imprisonment or the death penalty. Victims and officials alike have expressed relief that justice is being pursued following the violent spree.