Fact Check: Authorities are searching for 57-year-old Vance Boelter, who is suspected of shooting and killing Democratic former House Speaker Melissa Hortman and her husband, Mark, in their Brooklyn Park home on June 14, 2025.
What We Know
On June 14, 2025, authorities identified 57-year-old Vance Boelter as the suspect in the shooting deaths of former Minnesota House Speaker Melissa Hortman and her husband, Mark, at their home in Brooklyn Park, Minnesota. The incident was described as a "politically motivated assassination" by Minnesota Governor Tim Walz, who confirmed that the couple was fatally shot by someone posing as a police officer (AP News). Additionally, another lawmaker, State Senator John Hoffman, and his wife were injured in the same attack, which occurred shortly after 2 a.m. when police responded to reports of gunfire at Hoffman's residence (CNN).
Law enforcement officials have indicated that Boelter is believed to have been armed and had a history of political involvement, having served on a state workforce development board alongside Hoffman (AP News). Following the shootings, a manhunt was launched, with the FBI offering a reward of up to $50,000 for information leading to Boelter's arrest (CNN).
Analysis
The claim regarding the search for Vance Boelter is corroborated by multiple reputable news sources, including the Associated Press and CNN, which reported on the details surrounding the shootings and the ongoing manhunt. Both sources confirm that Boelter is the identified suspect in the killings of Melissa and Mark Hortman, as well as the shooting of Senator Hoffman and his wife (AP News, CNN).
The reliability of these sources is high; the Associated Press is known for its journalistic integrity and thorough fact-checking processes, while CNN is a well-established news organization. Both outlets provided detailed accounts of the events, including eyewitness reports and statements from law enforcement officials, which enhance the credibility of the information presented.
Furthermore, the context of the shootings—described as politically motivated—aligns with broader concerns about political violence in the current climate, as noted by Governor Walz (AP News). The investigation into Boelter's motives, including writings found in his vehicle that targeted several lawmakers, adds another layer of seriousness to the situation (CNN).
Conclusion
The claim that authorities are searching for Vance Boelter, who is suspected of shooting and killing Melissa Hortman and her husband, is True. The evidence from multiple credible news sources confirms the identity of the suspect and the details surrounding the tragic incident, including the political motivations behind the attack.
