Fact Check: Authorities confirmed that 57-year-old Vance Boelter is the suspect sought in connection with the targeted shootings of Minnesota state lawmakers Melissa Hortman and John Hoffman.

Fact Check: Authorities Confirmed Vance Boelter as Suspect in Targeted Shootings of Minnesota State Lawmakers

What We Know

On June 14, 2025, authorities confirmed that Vance Boelter, a 57-year-old man, is the suspect in connection with the targeted shootings of Minnesota state lawmakers Melissa Hortman and John Hoffman. According to reports, Boelter is believed to have fatally shot Representative Hortman and her husband, Mark, in their Brooklyn Park home, while also wounding Senator Hoffman and his wife, Yvette, in a separate incident approximately nine miles away (New York Times, AP News). Law enforcement officials described the attacks as politically motivated, with Governor Tim Walz labeling them as “targeted political violence” (AP News, KSTP).

Boelter was last seen wearing a light cowboy hat and a dark collared shirt, and authorities have urged the public to report any sightings of him (Fox 9). Investigators discovered a manifesto and a list of targets, including the two lawmakers, in Boelter's vehicle, further indicating the premeditated nature of the attacks (Star Tribune).

Analysis

The identification of Vance Boelter as the suspect is supported by multiple reputable sources, including the Associated Press and New York Times, which provide consistent details about the events surrounding the shootings and the subsequent manhunt for Boelter (AP News, New York Times). The confirmation from law enforcement officials lends credibility to the claim, as they are the primary source of information regarding the investigation.

The reports indicate that Boelter had a history of political involvement, having served on a state workforce development board alongside Senator Hoffman, although the nature of their relationship remains unclear (AP News). This connection may suggest a motive, but further investigation is needed to fully understand the circumstances leading to the attacks.

While the sources cited are generally reliable, it is essential to note that the situation is still developing, and new information may emerge. However, the initial reports from credible news outlets and law enforcement provide a strong basis for the claim that Vance Boelter is indeed the suspect sought in connection with these shootings.

Conclusion

Verdict: True
The claim that authorities confirmed Vance Boelter as the suspect in the targeted shootings of Minnesota state lawmakers Melissa Hortman and John Hoffman is accurate. Multiple credible sources have reported on the identification of Boelter and the details surrounding the violent incidents, establishing a clear link between him and the attacks.

Sources

1. Live Updates: Suspect Identified in Minnesota Lawmakers ...
2. Minnesota lawmaker, spouse dead after targeted shooting
3. 57-year-old suspect sought in targeted shootings of ...
4. Minnesota lawmaker shootings: Suspect Vance Boelter ...
5. Minnesota lawmaker Melissa Hortman killed, State Sen. John ...
6. Live: Suspect in Rep. Hortman assassination had list ...
7. Minnesota Rep. Hortman and husband killed, Sen. ...
8. Democratic Minnesota politician fatally shot, another ...