Minnesota Lawmaker Attacks: Deaths, Plot, Security Concerns

Vance Boelter, 57, has been charged with murder and attempted murder after stalking and fatally shooting Minnesota state Rep. Melissa Hortman and her husband, and wounding state Sen. John Hoffman and his wife in separate attacks. Authorities allege Boelter impersonated a police officer and targeted his victims at their homes, maintaining a 'hit list' or manifesto that named up to 70 individuals, including politicians and advocates, suggesting a broader politically motivated plot. The attacks, described by officials as 'the stuff of nightmares,' also resulted in the death of the Hortman family's service dog, Gilbert. Boelter is facing both state and federal charges, with the latter carrying the possibility of the death penalty. Officials have noted Boelter's dramatic religious conversion in his teens. The case has led to heightened security for lawmakers and national scrutiny, especially after President Trump declined to call Minnesota's governor following the tragedy, breaking with tradition.