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The Independent UK
The Independent UK
World
Joe Sommerlad and Oliver O'Connell

Minnesota shootings: Suspect Vance Boelter’s religious life in focus as investigators probe motive

Melissa Hortman Minnesota Tim Walz

Vance Boelter, 57, who is suspected of fatally shooting Minnesota Democratic state Rep. Melissa Hortman and her husband, Mark, and wounding Democratic state Sen. John Hoffman and his wife, Yvette, has been charged with state and federal crimes.

A two-day manhunt for Boelter, described as the largest in the state’s history, ended with his arrest late on Sunday.

He has been charged with two counts of second-degree murder and two counts of attempted murder by the state, which intends to upgrade the counts to first-degree murder. Federal charges include firearm offenses, stalking, and murder, potentially making this a death penalty case. He is being held on $5 million bail and is scheduled to return to court on June 27.

Authorities discovered “voluminous” written material in Boelter's car and home, including plans, lists of names, and surveillance research targeting elected officials.

Acting U.S. Attorney Joseph Thompson stated that Boelter had compiled a list of 45 state and federal elected officials – all Democrats – and had researched their backgrounds and those of their families. On the night of the shootings, Boelter allegedly impersonated a police officer and also visited the homes of two other lawmakers.

Key points

  • Vance Boelter in custody over shootings of Minnesota Democratic lawmakers after two-day manhunt
  • Trump refuses to call 'whacked out' Gov Tim Walz after death of state lawmaker and friend
  • 'Heartbroken and devastated': Children of slain lawmaker Melissa Hortman issue statement
  • Minnesota senator confronts Repulican colleague Mike Lee over posts mocking shootings
  • Lawmakers on list of suspected Minnesota shooter vow not to bow down
  • Congress holding emergency briefings on security for lawmakers in wake of shootings

What you need to know today

Tuesday 17 June 2025 14:43 , Oliver O'Connell
  • Vance Boelter is in custody after a two-day manhunt for allegedly fatally shooting Minnesota State Representative Melissa Hortman and her husband, Mark, and wounding State Senator John Hoffman and his wife, Yvette.
  • Boelter faces state charges of second-degree murder and attempted murder, as well as federal charges including firearm offenses, stalking, and murder, potentially leading to a death penalty case.
  • Authorities found plans, lists of names, and surveillance research targeting 45 state and federal elected officials—all Democrats—in Boelter's car and home, and he allegedly impersonated a police officer during the shootings.
  • Republican Senator Mike Lee faced criticism for mocking the shootings on social media.
  • President Trump stated he would not call “whacked out” Minnesota Governor Tim Walz after the incident. Vice President JD Vance has spoken with the governor.
  • Lawmakers targeted in Boelter’s writings have vowed not to be intimidated, and the Hoffmans have expressed gratitude for law enforcement and condemned political violence in a statement.
  • In Congress, lawmakers are being briefed by the Capitol Police about safety concerns.

What you need to know

Monday 16 June 2025 14:36 , Oliver O'Connell
  • Vance Boelter, 57, is in police custody after a nearly two-day manhunt for allegedly shooting two Minnesota lawmakers and their spouses.
  • Boelter is accused of fatally shooting Democratic state Rep. Melissa Hortman and her husband, Mark, and wounding Democratic state Sen. John Hoffman and his wife.
  • Authorities located Boelter's vehicle with evidence, and he was later arrested and charged with two counts of second-degree murder and two of attempted murder.
  • According to U.S. Attorney Joseph Thompson, Boelter meticulously planned the attacks, researching his victims and conducting surveillance on their homes; he also had a list of 45 Minnesota state and federal elected officials.
  • Boelter, described as "very conservative" and opposed to abortion, allegedly impersonated a police officer and wore a silicone mask during the shootings.
  • Federal charges include stalking, firearm use, and murder, potentially making it a death penalty case.
  • Boelter appeared briefly in court on Monday, saying he could not afford a private attorney. He is scheduled to return before a judge on June 27.

Minnesota state senator says shooter was parked near her home

Monday 16 June 2025 20:06 , Oliver O'Connell

Senator Ann Rest (DFL-New Hope) released the following statement Monday:

I have been made aware that the shooting suspect was parked near my home early Saturday morning. I am so grateful for the heroic work of the New Hope Police Department and its officers. Their quick action saved my life.

I am also thankful for the work of state and local law enforcement to apprehend the suspect before he could take any more lives.

While I am thankful the suspect has been apprehended, I grieve for the loss of Melissa Hortman and her husband Mark, and I am praying for the recovery of John and Yvette Hoffman.

Roommate claims suspected Minnesota shooter was ‘down’ and security business ‘wasn’t a reality’

Monday 16 June 2025 20:30 , Oliver O'Connell

A man who lived with Vance Luther Boelter, suspected of shooting two Minnesota lawmakers and their spouses on Saturday, said his lifelong friend had been “down” lately after returning from a trip.

David Carlson told reporters over the weekend that he’s known Boelter since the fourth grade and considered him a best friend. He said the two occasionally shared a rental near Minneapolis because it was close to their workplaces.

Ariana Baio reports.

Suspected Minnesota shooter’s friend says he was ‘not as upbeat’ after recent trip

Calls for Sen. Mike Lee to resign over social media posts

Monday 16 June 2025 20:40 , Oliver O'Connell

Utah Senator Mike Lee sparked outrage over the weekend and calls for his resignation over social media posts that baselessly claim the man charged with targeting Minnesota lawmakers in shootings during the weekend has ties to the political left.

One post read: “This is what happens (w)hen Marxists don't get their way.”

Another said, “Nightmare on Waltz Street,” in a misspelled reference to Minnesota Governor Tim Walz.

In another post about the shootings, Lee called Marxism “a deadly mental illness.”

Shooting suspect Vance Boelter has since been confirmed to hold deeply conservative religious and political views, with his roommate telling CBS News that he is a Trump supporter.

“I've condemned what Mike Lee did here at home, and I will speak to him about this. … This is not a laughing matter,” Senator Amy Klobuchar told Morning Joe on MSNBC.

“He must resign or the Senate must expel him. It's that simple,” the Elevate Utah PAC wrote on Bluesky.

Former RNC chair Michael Steele posted on X: “Grow the hell up.”

House Republicans held 'tense' call with police over safety fears after shooting

Monday 16 June 2025 20:50 , Oliver O'Connell

In Washington, senators will be briefed by law enforcement officials on Tuesday about safety and security, following the assassination of Minnesota State Rep Melissa Hortman and her husband over the weekend and the shooting of State Sen. John Hoffman and his wife.

ABC News reports that on Saturday, House Republicans held a conference call with the House Sergeant at Arms and the U.S. Capitol Police to discuss their concerns. The call was described as “tense.”

The key source of contention, in particular, was the request for police to be outside their homes at all times. Law enforcement authorities say they need more funding from Congress to provide that.

Boelter bail set at $5m in state court

Monday 16 June 2025 20:55 , Oliver O'Connell

While Vance Boelter made an appearance at the federal court today, he did not appear at the state court.

During the proceeding, the state court judge issued a bench warrant for Boelter and set bail at $5 million.

Boelter remains in federal custody and no court date was set for a return to state court.

John and Yvette Hoffman 'humbled' by outpouring of support

Monday 16 June 2025 21:00 , Oliver O'Connell

Minnesota state Senator John Hoffman and his wife Yvette gave the following statement to CNN affiliate WCCO.

First and foremost, John and I hold a deep and profound gratitude for the work of our law enforcement agencies and the public for their help in bringing the suspect to justice, while diligently keeping our communities safe during this extremely difficult and senseless event.

John and I are both incredibly lucky to be alive. We continue our healing journey and are humbled by the outpouring of love and support our family has received from across the state and our nation.

There is never a place for senseless political violence and loss of life. We are devastated by the loss of Melissa and Mark [Hortman], and our hearts go out to all those who knew and loved them both. We are always at our best when we unite together.

Klobuchar's office confirms she was on suspect's target list

Monday 16 June 2025 21:14 , Oliver O'Connell

The office of Minnesota Democratic Senator Amy Klobuchar has confirmed that she was one of the elected officials named as a potential target in the suspect’s notebooks, The New York Times reports.

The lists made by Vance Boelter included other Democratic politicians across several states, as well as community leaders and Planned Parenthood centers.

Memorial honors slain state lawmaker

Monday 16 June 2025 21:30 , Oliver O'Connell
People visit a memorial outside the Minnesota State Capitol in honor of Democratic state assemblywoman Melissa Hortman and her husband Mark, after a gunman killed them on Saturday (REUTERS)

Flowers and hand-written messages adorn the base of a statue in tribute to Melissa Hortman and her husband, Mark. (REUTERS)

Watch: Sen. Durbin slams rhetoric from elected officials on shootings as 'reprehensible'

Monday 16 June 2025 21:50 , Oliver O'Connell

Ohio congressman confirms he was on target list

Monday 16 June 2025 21:54 , Oliver O'Connell

Second-term Ohio Democratic Rep. Greg Landsman was notified by U.S. Capitol Police that his name was included in the Minnesota murder suspect’s notes.

How the shocking events unfolded

Monday 16 June 2025 22:00 , Oliver O'Connell

According to court documents, in the early morning hours of June 14, 2025, Vance Luther Boelter put into effect a calculated plan to inflict fear and violence upon Minnesota elected officials and their families. Boelter equipped himself with firearms and body armor, disguised himself as a law enforcement officer, and drove to the home of Senator Hoffman. Boelter knocked on the door repeatedly, claiming to be a police officer. Shortly after the Hoffmans opened the door, they were alarmed to realize Boelter was wearing a facemask. The Hoffmans tried to close the door on Boelter, but Boelter repeatedly shot both Senator and Mrs. Hoffman.

Boelter then traveled to the homes of two other Minnesota elected officials, still disguised as a law enforcement officer. Boelter was unable to make contact with either of those officials or their families.

Next, Boelter drove to the home of Speaker Emerita and Representative Melissa Hortman. Meanwhile, local law enforcement, having heard of the shooting at the Hoffman residence, drove to the Hortman household to conduct a safety check. Upon arriving, officers saw Boelter’s car, a black Ford Explorer SUV, designed to resemble a law enforcement vehicle. It was equipped with police-style lights that were on and flashing. Officers saw Boelter, standing several feet from and facing the front door of the Hortman home. Moments later, Boelter fired several gunshots into the home, repeatedly striking Mr. Hortman. As Boelter did so, he rushed into the home and fired several additional shots, repeatedly striking Representative Hortman. Officers provided medical aid to the Hortmans and attempted to pursue Boelter, who abandoned the SUV and fled, initially, on foot. Both Hortmans died from their wounds.

Law enforcement searched Boelter’s SUV and recovered five firearms, including semi-automatic, assault-style rifles, a large quantity of ammunition, and several notebooks filled with handwritten notations. Those notes listed out the names of dozens of Minnesota state and federal elected officials. The notes often included the home addresses of those officials.

Monday 16 June 2025 22:04 , Oliver O'Connell

Fourth term El Paso, Texas, Democratic Rep. Veronica Escobar was informed by U.S. Capitol Police on Sunday that she was on the Minnesota shooter's list.

Watch: Schumer says highest priority is security for all senators

Monday 16 June 2025 22:11 , Oliver O'Connell

Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer says his highest priority is ensuring the safety of all senators following this weekend’s political assassination and shootings in Minnesota.

“My highest priority right now is working with the Senate leadership on both sides, the Senate Sergeant at Arms and Capitol Police, to ensure everyone's safety. This weekend, I asked Capitol Police and the Sergeant at Arms to increase the security for members, including Senator Padilla and the Minnesota Senators.”

Michigan Democrat reschedules town hall after name found on shooter's list

Monday 16 June 2025 22:17 , Oliver O'Connell

Michigan Democratic congresswoman Hillary Scholten has rescheduled a town hall after her name was found on the Minnesota shooter’s list of targets.

Nothing matters more to me than the safety and well-being of the people I serve. After being made aware that my name was on a list connected to the recent tragic shooting in Minnesota, my office has made the difficult decision to postpone our planned town hall in Muskegon.

Open, honest dialogue with West Michigan is at the heart of my service–and I will not be deterred from standing up for this community. Out of an abundance of caution and to not divert additional law enforcement resources away from protecting the broader public at this time, this is the responsible choice.

We will reschedule this event as soon as possible, and I remain committed to ensuring every West Michigander has the opportunity to make their voice heard.

Walz still has not heard from Trump after shootings

Monday 16 June 2025 22:22 , Oliver O'Connell

Minnesota Governor Tim Walz has still not heard from President Donald Trump since this weekend’s shootings.

The governor thanked Ontario Premier Doug Ford, who called to express his condolences.

The View rips Sen. Mike Lee over Minnesota shooter tweets

Monday 16 June 2025 22:30 , Oliver O'Connell

Tearing into Mike Lee on Monday for his tweets that seemingly blamed the politically motivated shootings of Minnesota lawmakers on “Marxists” and Minnesota Gov. Tim Walz, the hosts of The View said that if the GOP senator had “any other job,” he would “be fired instantly.”

Less than a day after saying he condemned “political violence” following the fatal shooting at a protest in his home state of Utah, Lee took to his personal X account labeled @BasedMikeLee – where he regularly peddles far-right disinformation – to mock the tragedy and point the finger at Democrats and leftists.

Justin Baragona has the story.

The View rips Mike Lee for Vance Boelter tweets, says he’d ‘be fired’ anywhere else

Democrat leadership writes to Speaker Johnson calling for additional security

Monday 16 June 2025 22:35 , Oliver O'Connell

House Minority Leader Hakeem Jeffries and Administration Committee Top Democrat Rep. Joseph Morelle have written to Speaker Mike Johnson calling for additional security for all House members nationwide, following the shooting of Minnesota state lawmakers.

They wrote in part: “That responsibility starts with you. The Speaker of the House has extensive authority over this institution, both administratively and legislatively. We strongly urge you to immediately direct the Sergeant at Arms to take all necessary steps to protect House members throughout the country. At the same time, it is imperative that we substantially increase the Member Representational Allowance (MRA) to support additional safety and security measures in every single office.”

Another Michigan rep says they were on shooter's list

Monday 16 June 2025 22:44 , Oliver O'Connell

Michigan Democratic Rep. Shri Thanedar has revealed that he, too, was on the Minnesota shooter’s list of targets.

Thanedar said in a statement: “There is no place for political violence in a democracy.”

IN FOCUS: How the ‘politically motivated’ shooting of Minnesota lawmakers unleashed right-wing conspiracy theories

Monday 16 June 2025 23:00 , Oliver O'Connell

Josh Marcus writes:

Police in Minnesota are grappling with two different chases.

The first, most pressing one, is the arrest of Vance L. Boelter, the man suspected of impersonating a police officer and shooting two state lawmakers and their spouses in a “politically motivated” attack on Saturday.

The other is a race to get in front of feverish conspiracy theories about the incident that are spreading across right-wing corners of the internet.

Read on...

How ‘politically motivated’ shooting of lawmakers unleashed conspiracy theories

Minnesota victims’ dog had to be put down after being shot in Saturday’s political assassinations

Monday 16 June 2025 23:30 , Oliver O'Connell

A pet dog belonging to a Minnesota state representative and her husband, who were shot dead at their home on Saturday, has been put down after being wounded in the attack.

Melissa Hortman, 55, and her husband Mark, 58, were shot multiple times at their Brooklyn Park home in the early hours of Saturday by a man posing as a police officer. The same night, state senator John Hoffman, 60, and his wife Yvette were targeted and shot and wounded in a similar attack at their home.

Michelle Del Rey reports.

Minnesota victims’ dog put down after being shot in political attack

North Carolina state rep faces calls to resign for guillotine image of Trump

Tuesday 17 June 2025 00:00 , Josh Marcus

The Minnesota shootings have prompted serious discussions about the levels of political violence and threatening rhetoric in the US today, including condemnation of US Senator Mike Lee for posts that appeared to mock the slayings and claim that Marxists were responsible, despite no public evidence that is the case.

How ‘politically motivated’ shooting of lawmakers unleashed conspiracy theories

In parallel with these discussions, a North Carolina state rep is facing criticism for a post about the “No Kings” protests over the weekend many found inappropriate and violent.

The state’s Republican Party has called on Rep. Julie Von Haefen to resign, after she posted images of a local “No Kings” event including a demonstrator holding a sign featuring a beheaded Donald Trump and the slogan “some cuts may be necessary” along with a guillotine.

“The posts Rep. von Haefen shared do not show the judgement or temperament of someone to hold public office,” NCGOP Chairman Jason Simmons said in a statement. “For the good of her constituents to have effective representation, she should resign.”

The lawmaker later removed the photo.

“One of the images of a protester holding a sign was inappropriate, and I later edited the video to remove the photo. Some online sources have incorrectly reported that I am the person in the photo with the sign, which is not true,” von Haefen later told the Raleigh News and Observer. “Let me be clear: I condemn political violence in all forms. My focus remains on bringing people together and fighting for the values that matter to North Carolinians. Like so many, I was horrified by the violence in Minnesota. There is no place for that kind of extremism in our democracy, no matter the target, no matter the party.”

Minnesota senator confronts Mike Lee after posts mocking shootings

Tuesday 17 June 2025 00:30 , Josh Marcus

Senator Tina Smith (D-Minn.) (AP)

US Senator Tina Smith, Democrat of Minnesota, was seen confronting Senator Mike Lee of Utah on Monday in the Capitol, after the latter made posts on X in recent days spreading unverified information and appearing to mock the recent shooting of Democratic lawmakers in Minnesota.

"I think that he honestly, he seemed a little surprised to be confronted,” Smith told reporter Jamie Dupree of the conversation.

Here’s our report on the chaotic, often conspiratorial online discourse that followed the shooting, including Lee’s comments.

How ‘politically motivated’ shooting of lawmakers unleashed conspiracy theories

Minnesota shootings upend balance in evenly split state House

Tuesday 17 June 2025 01:18 , Josh Marcus

(Getty Images)

The Minnesota shootings have not only traumatized family members and local leaders alike, but they also have altered what was previously the evenly divided partisan balance of the state’s House of Representatives.

With the killing of Melissa Hortman, the House’s top Democrat, Republicans now have a one-vote majority.

The governor will likely call a special election for Hortman’s seat before the next legislative session begins in February.

Democrats say this isn’t an immediate concern, though.

“There is no urgency to fill the seat,” Matt Roznowski, the director of communications and public affairs for the House of Representative’s Democratic-Farmer-Labor Party, told The New York Times.

Trump still hasn't called Minnesota governor – but Vance has

Tuesday 17 June 2025 01:45 , Josh Marcus

Three days after shootings targeted state lawmakers, President Trump still hasn’t reached out to Minnesota Governor Tim Walz, the Democrat said Monday.

Walz, who served as the vice presidential nominee on the Democratic ticket against Trump in 2024, said he wasn’t surprised.

(Minneosta Star Tribune)

“I think I understand where that’s at,” Walz told MPR. “I did speak to Vice President Vance, grateful for that call.”

“I’m always open to you know, people expressing gratitude,” he added.

“Vice President Vance assured us, and he delivered, that the FBI would be there as partners with us to get it done. That was what needed to be done.”

Here’s Madeline Sherratt with more on Trump’s silence.

Trump can’t resist dig at Tim Walz while discussing Minnesota lawmaker assassinations

'Unconscionable': Minnesota senator's staff slams Mike Lee over mocking posts

Tuesday 17 June 2025 02:00

A senior staff member for Senator Tina Smith of Minnesota slammed Utah Senator Mike Lee over his posts appearing to mock the recent shooting of Democratic state lawmakers in Minnesota, as well as claim without evidence their killings were a Marxist attack.

In an email, obtained by Politico, the staff member called the posts “unconscionable.”

“Why would you use the awesome power of a United States Senate Office to compound people’s grief,” the official wrote.

“Is this how your team measures success? Using the office of [a] US Senator to post not just one but a series of jokes about an assassination — is that a successful day of work on Team Lee?”

(AP)

Leader of Minnesota House calls on colleagues to 'set the tone' and show respectful bipartisanship

Tuesday 17 June 2025 02:30 , Josh Marcus

Lisa Demuth, the Republican Speaker of the Minnesota House of Representatives, is calling on her colleagues of both parties to “set the tone” and follow the example of her predecessor, the well-regarded Rep. Melissa Hortman, who was killed in Saturday’s shootings.

“We got along really well, and it’s because she started building that working relationship over the years,” Demuth told The Minnesota Star Tribune on Monday. “Without that happening, it would have made this year a lot harder.”

“This person is completely a monster,” Demuth added of alleged gunman Vance Boelter. “No rational agreement or disagreement on any type of policy should ever lead to something like this.”

Neighbors describe past impressions of Vance Boelter and the moments before his capture

Tuesday 17 June 2025 04:00 , Josh Marcus

Residents of the town of Green Isle are sharing their recollections of suspected Minnesota gunman Vance Boelter, including the tense moments before he was captured near the rural area.

Wendy Thomas told CBS Minnesota she was stopping into a friend’s house to pick up an address book and speaking with her father on the phone on Sunday evening when she spotted the then-fugitive.

"I was coming down the driveway [and] I said, 'Dad, there is somebody in the front yard,'" said Thomas.

Boelter ducked down by a culvert once he was spotted, she said. Thomas then fled and flagged down a local deputy, helping alert police to his location.

Within two hours Boelter was captured, after police said he tried to evade arrest as officers closed in.

Kevin Effertz knew Boelter, who had a property near Green Isle, and said the alleged gunman appeared to be a regular, non-political person before the shootings, which targeted prominent state Democrats.

"He never had any political views that we talked about. It was always about the weather, what's going on. How's your family," Effertz told CBS Minnesota.

"A guy, you shake your hand with him and everything else, and he does this, which is really strange."

Children of slain lawmaker Melissa Hortman share statement

Tuesday 17 June 2025 04:30 , Josh Marcus

Sophie and Colin Hortman, the children of Minnesota Democratic state Rep. Melissa Hortman and her husband, Mark, who were killed in Saturday’s shootings, have shared a statement.

Here’s what they wrote in the message, which was obtained byThe Minnesota Star Tribune:

“We are devastated and heartbroken at the loss of our parents, Melissa and Mark. They were the bright lights at the center of our lives, and we can’t believe they are gone. Their love for us was boundless. We miss them so much.

“We want everyone to know that we are both safe and with loved ones. We are grateful for the outpouring of love and support we have received, and we appreciate your respect for our family’s privacy as we grieve.

“Our family would like to thank law enforcement for their swift action that saved others and for the coordination across communities that led to the arrest of the man who murdered our parents. We especially would like to thank the officers who were first on the scene to our parents’ home and their heroic attempts to rescue our mom and dad.

“Our parents touched so many lives, and they leave behind an incredible legacy of dedication to their community that will live on in us, their friends, their colleagues and co-workers, and every single person who knew and loved them.”

If you would like to honor the memory of Mark and Melissa, please consider the following:

  • Plant a tree.
  • Visit a local park and make use of their amenities, especially a bike trail.
  • Pet a dog. A golden retriever is ideal, but any will do.
  • Tell your loved ones a cheesy dad joke and laugh about it.
  • Bake something — bread for Mark or a cake for Melissa, and share it with someone.
  • Try a new hobby and enjoy learning something.
  • Stand up for what you believe in, especially if that thing is justice and peace.

“Hope and resilience are the enemy of fear. Our parents lived their lives with immense dedication to their fellow humans. This tragedy must become a moment for us to come together. Hold your loved ones a little closer. Love your neighbors. Treat each other with kindness and respect. The best way to honor our parents’ memory is to do something, whether big or small, to make our community just a little better for someone else.”

Recap: Police arrest Minnesota shooting suspect Vance Boelter

Tuesday 17 June 2025 05:00 , Josh Marcus

The man suspected of killing a Minnesota lawmaker and her husband and wounding another and his wife is in custody following a nearly two-day manhunt that followed a shocking streak of political violence.

Vance Boelter, 57, is accused of fatally shooting Democratic state Rep. Melissa Hortman and her husband, Mark, as well as shooting Democratic state Sen. John Hoffman and his wife at their respective homes on Saturday in what has been described as a “politically motivated” attack.

Boelter was armed when he was captured in rural Green Isle, Minnesota late Sunday night. He faces two counts of second-degree murder and two counts of second-degree attempted murder.

“The face of evil,” Ramsey County Sheriff's Office wrote in a social media caption alongside a photograph of the suspect surrounded by heavily armed law enforcement officers.

Ariana Baio and Alex Woodward had the story.

Vance Boelter in custody after two-day manhunt in shootings of Minnesota lawmakers

Minnesota Senator claims Mike Lee fled and pretended to talk on phone to avoid conversation about posts mocking shootings

Tuesday 17 June 2025 06:00 , Josh Marcus

Senator Tina Smith of Minnesota continues to hammer Senator Mike Lee of Utah for his posts on X over the weekend speculating about and making light of the recent shooting of Democratic lawmakers in Minnesota.

“I wanted to look him in the eye and tell him what I thought and how it made me and so many Minnesotans feel that he had done this,” Smith said of a confrontation between the pair that took place in the Capitol on Monday.

Smith, in an interview with streamer Brian Tyler Cohen, said she had to “chase after him a bit” to begin the conversation, and accused Lee of pretending to be on the phone to avoid the head-to-head.

“I don’t think this is a man who is frequently confronted by anybody, and I will tell you he seemed a little shocked to have anybody challenging him, let alone one of his colleagues,” Smith added.

Friend describes Boelter as 'conservative' but not fanatical

Tuesday 17 June 2025 07:59 , Josh Marcus

(Hennepin County Sheriff's Office)

With Vance Boelter in custody, officials are working to understand what drove the 57-year-old to shoot Minnesota Democratic lawmakers and their families, as officials allege.

Boelter’s past suggests a conservative political bent, but no outright signs of violent ideology or plans, according to the limited public information available at this early stage.

"He was right-leaning politically but never fanatical, from what I saw, just strong beliefs,” Paul Schroeder, a friend of Boelter’s, told The Associated Press.

The outlet also reviewed sermons Boelter gave while volunteering as an evangelical pastor during a stint in the Democratic Republic of Congo as a security pastor.

“The churches are so messed up, they don’t know abortion is wrong in many churches,” he said in one such sermon.

Dog belonging to slain Minnesota lawmaker had to be put down after attack

Tuesday 17 June 2025 09:00 , Josh Marcus

A pet dog belonging to a Minnesota state representative and her husband who were shot dead at their home on Saturday, has been put down after being wounded in the attack.

Melissa Hortman, 55, and her husband Mark, 58, were shot multiple times at their Brooklyn Park home in the early hours of Saturday, by a man posing as a police officer.

It has emerged that the family’s dog, Gilbert, was “humanely euthanized” after suffering severe wounds in the attack. He was four and a half years old.

Michelle Del Rey reports.

Minnesota victims’ dog put down after being shot in political attack

Boelter's alleged last texts to family revealed

Tuesday 17 June 2025 10:00 , Josh Marcus

Minnesota shooting suspect Vance Boelter allegedly sent text messages to family members, including his wife, around the time of the shootings of four lawmakers he is accused of carrying out on Saturday.

“Dad went to war last night… I don’t wanna say more because I don’t wanna implicate anybody,” Boelter allegedly wrote in one message to his family, obtained by The New York Post.

“Words are not gonna explain how sorry I am for this situation… there’s gonna be some people coming to the house armed and trigger-happy and I don’t want you guys around,” he wrote in another message, this one to his wife.

(FBI)

The MAGA right spreads false claims in wake of Minnesota shootings

Tuesday 17 June 2025 11:00 , Josh Marcus

Politicians, businessmen and right-wing influencers aligned with the Republican Party have spread unfounded claims about the Minnesota shootings and political violence more broadly in the days since.

Some have framed the shooting as a Democratic plot, while Donald Trump Jr has used the occasion to claim, without evidence, that transgender people are the most pressing public safety threat.

Here is our story fact-checking their outlandish claims.

How ‘politically motivated’ shooting of lawmakers unleashed conspiracy theories

Lawmakers on list of suspected Minnesota shooter vow not to bow down

Tuesday 17 June 2025 12:00 , Joe Sommerlad

From a legislator in downtown Minneapolis to a veteran Ohio congresswoman, many lawmakers included in the suspected Minnesota gunman’s list of targets have vowed not to bow down.

The dozens of politicians included in Vance Boelter’s writings were Democrats, according to Acting U.S. Attorney Joseph Thompson. About 45 were state and federal officials in Minnesota, while elected leaders in Michigan, Ohio and Wisconsin said they were also mentioned in the writings.

Authorities have not provided a motive for the shootings.

Here’s a look at how some of the lawmakers in Boelter’s writings have reacted to Saturday’s disturbing events.

Many lawmakers on list of suspected Minnesota shooter vow not to bow down

John and Yvette Hoffman ‘humbled’ by outpouring of support

Tuesday 17 June 2025 13:00 , Joe Sommerlad

Yvette Hoffman, the wife of Minnesota state senator John Hoffman, is recovering from her injuries in hospital alongside her husband but has issued the following statement to CNN affiliate WCCO:

“First and foremost, John and I hold a deep and profound gratitude for the work of our law enforcement agencies and the public for their help in bringing the suspect to justice, while diligently keeping our communities safe during this extremely difficult and senseless event.

“John and I are both incredibly lucky to be alive. We continue our healing journey and are humbled by the outpouring of love and support our family has received from across the state and our nation.

“There is never a place for senseless political violence and loss of life. We are devastated by the loss of Melissa and Mark [Hortman], and our hearts go out to all those who knew and loved them both. We are always at our best when we unite together.”

The View rips Mike Lee over Minnesota shooter tweets

Tuesday 17 June 2025 14:00 , Joe Sommerlad

Tearing into the Republican senator on Monday for his tweets that seemingly blamed the politically motivated shootings of Minnesota lawmakers on “Marxists” and Minnesota Gov. Tim Walz, the hosts of ABC’s The View agreed that if Lee had “any other job,” he would “be fired instantly.”

Less than a day after saying he condemned “political violence” following the fatal shooting at a protest in his home state of Utah, Lee took to his personal X account labeled @BasedMikeLee – where he regularly peddles far-right disinformation – to mock the tragedy and point the finger at Democrats and leftists.

Justin Baragona has the story.

The View rips Mike Lee for Vance Boelter tweets, says he’d ‘be fired’ anywhere else

Trump won't call 'whacked out' Walz

Tuesday 17 June 2025 14:06 , Oliver O'Connell

President Donald Trump said on Tuesday that he does not plan to call Minnesota Governor Tim Walz, the Democratic vice presidential nominee in 2024, after a weekend shooting left one of the state's lawmakers dead and another injured.

State Representative Melissa Hortman and her husband Mark were shot and killed in their home in the early hours of Saturday morning after State Senator John Hoffman and his wife Yvette were shot and injured at their residence. Both lawmakers were Democrats and friends of the governor.

Trump issued a statement following Saturday's shooting, asserting that such “horrific violence” would not be tolerated in the U.S. However, he has chosen not to offer conciliatory words to Walz as he leads the response in his state.

Walz was the running mate of Democratic presidential nominee Kamala Harris last year. Trump and his then-running mate, JD Vance, defeated them in the November election.

Vance has spoken with Walz, a source close to the governor told NBC News. Walz expressed appreciation for the coordination between federal law enforcement and Minnesota public safety officials, the source said.

“I think the governor of Minnesota is so whacked out. I'm not calling him. Why would I call him?” Trump told reporters on Air Force One, en route back from a trip to Canada for a G7 leaders meeting.

“The guy doesn't have a clue. He's a mess. So I could be nice and call him, but why waste time?”

The suspect, Vance Boelter, accused of assassinating a Minnesota lawmaker and injuring another, drove to the homes of at least four state politicians as part of a planned killing spree, U.S. authorities said on Monday.

Democrat leadership writes to Speaker Johnson calling for additional security

Tuesday 17 June 2025 14:40 , Oliver O'Connell

House Minority Leader Hakeem Jeffries and Administration Committee Top Democrat Rep. Joseph Morelle have written to Speaker Mike Johnson calling for additional security for all House members nationwide, following the shooting of Minnesota state lawmakers.

They wrote in part: “That responsibility starts with you. The Speaker of the House has extensive authority over this institution, both administratively and legislatively. We strongly urge you to immediately direct the Sergeant at Arms to take all necessary steps to protect House members throughout the country. At the same time, it is imperative that we substantially increase the Member Representational Allowance (MRA) to support additional safety and security measures in every single office.”

Tuesday 17 June 2025 15:00 , Oliver O'Connell

How the shocking events unfolded in the early hours of Saturday morning

Tuesday 17 June 2025 15:20 , Oliver O'Connell

According to court documents, in the early morning hours of June 14, 2025, Vance Luther Boelter put into effect a calculated plan to inflict fear and violence upon Minnesota elected officials and their families. Boelter equipped himself with firearms and body armor, disguised himself as a law enforcement officer, and drove to the home of Senator Hoffman. Boelter knocked on the door repeatedly, claiming to be a police officer. Shortly after the Hoffmans opened the door, they were alarmed to realize Boelter was wearing a facemask. The Hoffmans tried to close the door on Boelter, but Boelter repeatedly shot both Senator and Mrs. Hoffman.

Boelter then traveled to the homes of two other Minnesota elected officials, still disguised as a law enforcement officer. Boelter was unable to make contact with either of those officials or their families.

Next, Boelter drove to the home of Speaker Emerita and Representative Melissa Hortman. Meanwhile, local law enforcement, having heard of the shooting at the Hoffman residence, drove to the Hortman household to conduct a safety check. Upon arriving, officers saw Boelter’s car, a black Ford Explorer SUV, designed to resemble a law enforcement vehicle. It was equipped with police-style lights that were on and flashing. Officers saw Boelter, standing several feet from and facing the front door of the Hortman home. Moments later, Boelter fired several gunshots into the home, repeatedly striking Mr. Hortman. As Boelter did so, he rushed into the home and fired several additional shots, repeatedly striking Representative Hortman. Officers provided medical aid to the Hortmans and attempted to pursue Boelter, who abandoned the SUV and fled, initially, on foot. Both Hortmans died from their wounds.

Law enforcement searched Boelter’s SUV and recovered five firearms, including semi-automatic, assault-style rifles, a large quantity of ammunition, and several notebooks filled with handwritten notations. Those notes listed out the names of dozens of Minnesota state and federal elected officials. The notes often included the home addresses of those officials.

Who was on the shooter's list of targeted lawmakers?

Tuesday 17 June 2025 15:34

A list of approximately 45 elected lawmakers, all Democrats, was found in Vance Boetler’s car by police when he was apprehended.

Here’s who we know was on the list so far:

  • Rep. Debbie Dingell (MI)
  • Rep. Hillary Scholten (MI)
  • Rep. Shri Thanedar (MI)
  • Rep. Esther Agbaje (MN)
  • Rep. Angie Craig (MN)
  • Rep. Kelly Morrison (MN)
  • Rep. Ilhan Omar (MN)
  • State Sen. Ann Rest (MN)
  • Sen. Tina Smith (MN)
  • Rep. Joyce Beatty (OH)
  • Rep. Marcy Kaptur (OH)
  • Rep. Greg Landsman (OH)
  • Rep. Veronica Escobar (TX)
  • Sen. Tammy Baldwin (WI)
  • Rep. Mark Pocan (WI)

Criminologist Dr Casey Jordan told CNN’s Audie Cornish this morning that “the list speaks for itself” when establishing a motive.

Watch: Trump says he won't call Walz

Tuesday 17 June 2025 15:40 , Oliver O'Connell

Durbin calls Senate security briefing 'sobering'

Tuesday 17 June 2025 16:10 , Oliver O'Connell

Senate Judiciary Top Democrat and Minority Whip Dick Durbin called this morning’s Senate security briefing “sobering.”

Senators were spoken to by the Senate Sergeant at Arms and the U.S. Capitol Police in the first such meeting since the shooting of Minnesota state lawmakers and Senator Alex Padilla's removal from DHS Secretary Kristi Noem's press briefing in Los Angeles.

Said Durbin: “It was a sobering presentation on the question of the assassination and the vulnerability of many people in public life today. I would say that it calls for action and this committee is going to be at the heart of it. We are responsible for oversight for the Department of Justice, Department of Homeland Security, and I believe that we will be called on to consider legislation on this subject in very timely fashion."

Minnesota shooting suspect ‘stalked victim like prey’

Tuesday 17 June 2025 16:30 , Oliver O'Connell

The gunman accused of killing a Minnesota lawmaker and her husband and wounding a second lawmaker and his spouse will face federal charges.

Federal prosecutors revealed in a six-count complaint that Vance Boelter has been charged with murder, stalking, and firearms violations. He is now being held on $5 million bond. The Acting U.S. Attorney for the District of Minnesota, Joe Thompson, said during a Monday press conference that “It is no exaggeration to say that his crimes are the stuff of nightmares.”

“In the early morning hours of June 14, Boelter went to the homes of four Minnesota state politicians with the intent to kill them,” he added.

Thompson said Boelter “stalked his victims like prey.”

Gustaf Kilander reports.

Minnesota shooting suspect ‘stalked victim like prey’ feds say

Senator believes more money can be earmarked for security

Tuesday 17 June 2025 16:32 , Oliver O'Connell

Watch: Durbin says security briefing 'sobering'

Tuesday 17 June 2025 16:52 , Oliver O'Connell

Timeline: 40 hours of violence and fear as gunman stalks Minnesota politicians

Tuesday 17 June 2025 17:00 , Oliver O'Connell

Violence and fear swept through towns in an arc around Minneapolis for more than 40 hours over the weekend as a man seemingly intent on sowing political devastation killed one Minnesota state lawmaker and left another bleeding from nine bullet wounds.

The attacks sparked the largest manhunt in Minnesota history, with heavily armed officers in full combat gear riding armored vehicles through suburban streets and country roads, ending in the arrest of Vance Boelter, a 57-year-old father of five and sometime Christian pastor known for his deeply conservative beliefs — but whose friends never saw him as an extremist.

From a state that has long prided itself on political civility, the attacks rippled across the country as frightened political leaders worried that America’s divides could cost them their lives.

Here’s how events unfolded:

40 hours of violence and fear as gunman stalks Minnesota politicians

Watch: Thune 'profoundly grateful' to law enforcement for capture of alleged shooter

Tuesday 17 June 2025 17:05 , Oliver O'Connell

Watch: Schumers says 'dramatic increase' in threats against lawmakers

Tuesday 17 June 2025 17:21 , Oliver O'Connell

Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer says: “We are seeing a dramatic increase in threats against Senators, Congressmen, public officials, and throughout America. These attacks are not just attacks on individuals but on democracy, on our way of life, on what we believe in, and they're an attempt to intimidate...”

Dozens of potential targets listed in suspect's notebooks

Tuesday 17 June 2025 17:30 , Oliver O'Connell

The man charged with killing one Minnesota lawmaker and wounding another in what prosecutors have described as a meticulously planned attack, had dozens of apparent targets, including officials in at least three other states.

Vance Boelter allegedly made it to the homes of two other legislators on the night of the attacks, but one was on vacation and the suspect left the other house after police arrived, acting U.S. Attorney Joseph Thompson said Monday.

All of the politicians named in his writing were Democrats, including more than 45 state and federal officials in Minnesota, Thompson said. Elected leaders in Michigan, Ohio and Wisconsin said they, too, were mentioned in his writings.

Investigators say Boelter appeared to spend months preparing for the shootings — the latest in a string of political attacks across the U.S.

Read on...

Minnesota shooting suspect had dozens of potential targets, prosecutors say

Walz spokesperson responds to Trump refusing to call governor

Tuesday 17 June 2025 17:35 , Oliver O'Connell

Responding to President Donald Trump’s earlier remarks in which he called Governor Tim Walz “a mess” and “whacked out,” spokesperson Teddy Tschann told ABC News: “Governor Walz wishes that President Trump would be a President for all Americans, but this tragedy isn’t about Trump or Walz.”

He continued: “It’s about the Hortman family, the Hoffman family, and the State of Minnesota, and the Governor remains focused on helping all three heal.”

Senators say 'very disturbing' how colleagues are targeted, call for tamping down of rhetoric

Tuesday 17 June 2025 17:45 , Oliver O'Connell

After a closed-door security briefing on the Minnesota shootings on Capitol Hill this morning, senators highlighted the nature of threats to public officials, urging increased security and the need to tamp down political rhetoric.

“Some of the rhetoric we see from the White House is adding fuel to the fire,” Democratic Senator Richard Blumenthal of Connecticut told reporters after the meeting with Capitol Police and the Senate Sergeant at Arms.

“We need to look beyond our own personal security to the need for greater protection against extremist political violence in this country, it is a scourge and a virus that is metastasizing,” NBC News reports him saying.

Former vice presidential candidate and Virginia Senator Tim Kaine said, “The degree to which colleagues are getting targeted in all kinds of ways is very disturbing.”

He added: “Colleagues mentioned this happens to me, this is happening me, here’s something to happen the last couple of days.”

Democratic Minnesota Senator Tina Smith declined to comment on what was said at the briefing, saying that it was “important for members’ safety that we don’t talk a lot about what is being done to keep us safe.”

Some states are more tightly guarding officials' personal information after Minnesota shooting

Tuesday 17 June 2025 18:00 , Oliver O'Connell

Lawmakers in some states are moving to delete their home addresses from online directories and Wisconsin legislators are seeking added security for a session this week after one Minnesota legislator was killed and another wounded in their suburban Minneapolis homes last weekend in what Gov. Tim Walz described as a targeted political attack.

Continue reading...

After Minnesota shooting, some states are more tightly guarding officials' personal information

Tuesday 17 June 2025 18:15 , Oliver O'Connell

Mike Lee deletes conspiracy theory posts about Minnesota shootings

Tuesday 17 June 2025 18:26 , Mike Bedigan

Utah Senator Mike Lee has deleted all three of his posts that promoted conspiracies and mocked the assassination of Democrat state Representative Melissa Hortman and her husband.

On Sunday the senator posted on his personal account on X that, “This is what happens when Marxists don’t get their way,” along with a photo of the suspected shooter released by the FBI.

Lee had also posted the photo alongside a headshot of Vance Boelter, the 57-year-old suspect, with the text “Nightmare on Waltz Street,” in apparent reference to Minnesota Governor Tim Walz.

Lee also replied to a post by Elon Musk that read: “The far left is murderously violent.” “Fact check: TRUE,” the senator wrote.

Lawmakers remain defiant after appearing on suspected shooter's list

Tuesday 17 June 2025 18:30 , Oliver O'Connell

From a legislator in downtown Minneapolis to a veteran Ohio congresswoman, many lawmakers included in the suspected Minnesota gunman's list of targets have vowed not to bow down.

Read on...

Many lawmakers on list of suspected Minnesota shooter vow not to bow down

Tuesday 17 June 2025 18:45 , Oliver O'Connell

Boelter visited four lawmakers' homes over 90 minutes in early hours of Saturday

Tuesday 17 June 2025 19:00 , Oliver O'Connell

Within an hour and a half early on Saturday in Minnesota, a Democratic state representative and her husband had been shot dead and another Democratic lawmaker and his wife were gravely wounded by a man who arrived at their homes disguised as a police officer.

Vance Boelter, 57, faces state and federal murder charges in the fatal shooting of Melissa Hortman, the top Democrat in the Minnesota House, and her husband, Mark, in their home in Brooklyn Park, Minnesota, on Saturday. Boelter is also charged with shooting and wounding another Democratic lawmaker, state Senator John Hoffman, and his wife, Yvette, in their home in Champlin, Minnesota.

The following timeline of the accused's movements early on Saturday is based on a federal affidavit.

2:06 a.m. The Hoffmans' daughter calls 911 to report that her parents had been shot. Video footage from their home earlier showed a man wearing a black tactical vest and mask that covered his entire head at their door with a flashlight, knocking and shouting, “This is the police. Open the door.”

2:24 a.m. Video footage from surveillance cameras at the home of an unnamed public official shows a man ringing the doorbell and repeatedly shouting, “This is the police. Open the door. This is the police. We have a warrant.” No one was home.

2:36 a.m. A police officer conducting a safety check at the home of another public official sees a man, now alleged to have been the suspect, sitting in a black SUV down the street. The police officer believed the man was another officer. The man sat staring straight ahead and did not respond when the officer tried to speak with him.

3:30 a.m. Police officers who had by now learned of the shooting of the Hoffmans arrive at the Hortmans' home for a safety check and see a man at the front door. The man fires gunshots as he enters the home and then escapes, leaving a black SUV behind. The Hortmans were killed in the gunfire.

6:18 a.m. Boelter sends a group text to his wife and other family members, including the message: “Dad went to war last night.”

Schumer calls for Mike Lee to apologize to victims' families

Tuesday 17 June 2025 19:08 , Mike Bedigan

Chuck Schumer has called for fellow Senator Mike Lee to apologize to the families of the victims of the Minnesota shootings.

Responding to a post on X revealing Lee had deleted earlier social media posts, Schumer replied: “Good.

“I called for this because they should have never been posted in the first place. He needs to apologize to the victims’ families.”

Tuesday 17 June 2025 19:15 , Oliver O'Connell

Jon Stewart and Sen. Tina Smith roast MAGA Senator Mike Lee

Tuesday 17 June 2025 19:30 , Oliver O'Connell

Jon Stewart joined Senator Tina Smith in tearing into MAGA Republican Mike Lee over his response to the shootings in Minnesota this weekend, which left state Rep. Melissa Hortman and her husband dead and state Sen. John Hoffman and his wife in the hospital.

Suspect Vance Boelter was arrested on Sunday and charged with murder after the largest manhunt in Minnesota history. Still, the tragedy was mocked by Utah GOP Senator Lee, who posted pictures of the gunman on X with the captions, “This is what happens when Marxists don’t get their way” and “Nightmare on Waltz Street,” the latter a misspelled partisan attack on Minnesota Gov. Tim Walz.

Joe Sommerlad has the story.

Jon Stewart and Sen. Tina Smith roast MAGA Senator Mike Lee over his Minnesota tweets

Senators receive closed-door briefing following Minnesota shootings

Tuesday 17 June 2025 19:45 , Mike Bedigan

Politico reports that on Tuesday, senators used a closed-door briefing with law enforcement officials to urge more funding for lawmaker security following the deaths of Democratic Rep. Melissa Hortman and her husband,

Senators on both sides of the political aisle were among the attendees making the case for additional resources to protect elected officials, according to Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer.

Minnesota victims’ dog had to be put down after being shot

Tuesday 17 June 2025 20:00 , Oliver O'Connell

A pet dog belonging to a Minnesota state representative and her husband who were shot dead at their home on Saturday, has been put down after being wounded in the attack.

Michelle Del Rey has the story.

Minnesota victims’ dog put down after being shot in political attack

Dad who bought Vance Boelter’s home stunned by connection to Minnesota murders

Tuesday 17 June 2025 20:30 , Oliver O'Connell

When 57-year-old Vance Luther Boelter was identified by authorities as the suspect who gunned down two Democratic state lawmakers in Minnesota this past weekend - killing one and grievously wounding the other - tech executive Zachary Svendsen says he found himself “dumbfounded.”

Svendsen, his wife, and their young children now live in Boelter’s former home in Saint Paul, having bought the 6-bed, 3.5-bath property a little over three years ago from the accused political assassin.

Justin Rohrlich reports.

Dad who bought Vance Boelter’s home stunned by link to Minnesota murders

Melissa Hortman: Minnesota lawmaker who once served burritos and trained service dogs

Tuesday 17 June 2025 21:00 , Oliver O'Connell

Melissa Hortman's journey from crafting chili-cheese burritos as a teenager to wielding significant influence at the Minnesota Capitol exemplifies her dedication to public service.

As a Democratic leader, her ability to shape the course of a deeply divided Legislature stands in stark contrast to her earlier volunteer work training service dogs for veterans.

Read on...

The Minnesota lawmaker who served burritos and trained service dogs

Mike Lee's office accused of causing extra pain 'on an unspeakably horrific weekend'

Tuesday 17 June 2025 22:00 , Mike Bedigan

A top staffer to Minnesota Senator Tina Smith has admonished Mike Lee’s office for “additional pain you’ve caused on an unspeakably horrific weekend.”

“Why would you use the awesome power of a Unite States Senate Office to compound people’s grief?” the staffer asked, in an email, sent to the Utah senator’s team.

Speaking of Democratic Senator Melissa Hortman, who was killed along with her husband, the email added: “She was a force. And a human being. And I beg you to exercise some restraint on social media as we continue to grieve.”

Donald Trump says calling Tim Walz would 'waste time'

Tuesday 17 June 2025 23:00 , Mike Bedigan

Donald Trump said that he would not call Minnesota Governor Tim Walz in the aftermath of the fatal shooting of a state Senator and her husband because it would “waste time.”

“I don’t really call him. He’s slick — he appointed this guy to a position," Trump said, speaking to reporters. "I think the governor of Minnesota is so whacked out. I’m not calling him. why would I call him?

“I could call him and say, ‘Hi, how you doing?’” the president continued. “The guy doesn’t have a clue. He's a, he's a mess. So, you know, I could be nice and call him but why waste time?”

Walz’s office responded by saying that the governor “wishes that President Trump would be a President for all Americans.”

(Reuters)

Watch: Trump mocks idea of calling Minnesota governor after murder of state Democrats

Wednesday 18 June 2025 00:00 , Mike Bedigan

Vance Boelter's religious life in focus as investigators probe motive

01:00 , Mike Bedigan

The religious beliefs of Vance Boelter, the man suspected of killing Democratic Senator Melissa Hortman and her husband, is now under scrutiny as detectives search for the motive behind the horrendous incident.

The Atlantic reports that it involves his contact with the Christian movement New Apostolic Reformation – whose leaders “speak of spiritual warfare, an army of God, and demon-possessed politicians.”

The outlet reports that Boelter may have been exposed to the ideas of the NAR while attending the Christ for the Nations Institute in Dallas.

Children of murdered Minnesota lawmaker release statement instructing people how to ‘honor’ their parents’ lives

02:00 , Mike Bedigan

The adult children of the late Minnesota Rep. Melissa Hortman have spoken out after the killing of their mom in a “politically motivated assassination.”

Sophie and Colin Hortman said in a lengthy statement to multiple news outlets, "We are devastated and heartbroken at the loss of our parents, Melissa and Mark. They were the bright lights at the center of our lives, and we can’t believe they are gone. Their love for us was boundless. We miss them so much.”

Erin Keller has the full story:

Children of slain MN lawmaker share ways to honor their parents’ lives

Suspect allegedly used 11 data brokers to help find info on taragets

03:00 , Mike Bedigan

Minnesota shooting suspect Vance Boelter allegedly used 11 data brokers, companies that gather and sell people’s information, including addresses, emails and phone numbers, to create a list of targets, according to court documents.

According to the documents, obtained by Politico, police found the names of the brokers in the suspect’s car after the shootings.

Officers also found a list of dozens of state and federal lawmakers, and their addresses, the outlet reported.

Our live coverage has paused. Here's a full breakdown

04:42 , Samantha Beech
  • Vance Boelter is in custody after a two-day manhunt for allegedly fatally shooting Minnesota State Representative Melissa Hortman and her husband, Mark, and wounding State Senator John Hoffman and his wife, Yvette.
  • Boelter faces state charges of second-degree murder and attempted murder, as well as federal charges including firearm offenses, stalking, and murder, potentially leading to a death penalty case.
  • Authorities found plans, lists of names, and surveillance research targeting 45 state and federal elected officials—all Democrats—in Boelter's car and home, and he allegedly impersonated a police officer during the shootings.
  • Republican Senator Mike Lee faced criticism for mocking the shootings on social media.
  • President Trump stated he would not call “whacked out” Minnesota Governor Tim Walz after the incident. Vice President JD Vance has spoken with the governor.
  • Lawmakers targeted in Boelter’s writings have vowed not to be intimidated, and the Hoffmans have expressed gratitude for law enforcement and condemned political violence in a statement.
  • In Congress, lawmakers are being briefed by the Capitol Police about safety concerns.
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