Fact Check: Largest Manhunt in Minnesota History Followed Hortman’s Murder
What We Know
On June 14, 2025, Minnesota House Speaker Emerita Melissa Hortman and her husband were murdered in their home by Vance Boelter, who was also charged with the shooting of Minnesota State Senator John Hoffman and his wife. Following these tragic events, law enforcement agencies launched what has been described as the largest manhunt in Minnesota's history to apprehend Boelter. According to the Department of Justice, the coordinated efforts involved federal, state, and local law enforcement agencies, which ultimately led to Boelter's capture on June 15, 2025, after a two-day search.
Boelter's actions were premeditated, as he had a "hit list" of 45 elected officials, all Democrats, indicating a targeted attack against public servants (NPR). The manhunt was characterized by extensive resources and manpower, including SWAT teams and aerial support, demonstrating the seriousness of the situation and the urgency to apprehend the suspect (New York Times).
Analysis
The claim that the manhunt following the murders of Melissa Hortman and her husband was the largest in Minnesota's history is supported by multiple credible sources. The Department of Justice explicitly stated that this incident marked the largest manhunt in the state's history, a sentiment echoed by law enforcement officials, including Brooklyn Park Police Chief Mark Bruley, who confirmed this characterization during a press conference (NPR).
The sources cited are reputable, including government statements and established news organizations such as NPR and The New York Times. These sources provide detailed accounts of the events surrounding the murders and the subsequent manhunt, emphasizing the unprecedented scale of the operation. The involvement of multiple law enforcement agencies and the extensive resources deployed further corroborate the claim.
While the sources are reliable, it is important to note that the context of the manhunt—specifically the violent targeting of elected officials—adds a layer of complexity to the narrative. The nature of the crimes committed and the implications for public safety and democracy were highlighted by officials, reinforcing the significance of the manhunt (BBC, CNN).
Conclusion
The claim that the largest manhunt in Minnesota history followed the murders of Melissa Hortman and her husband is True. This conclusion is based on credible statements from law enforcement and corroborated by multiple reliable news sources. The scale and urgency of the manhunt, as well as the tragic context of the events leading to it, affirm the accuracy of the claim.
Sources
- After Two-Day Manhunt, Suspect Charged with Shooting Two Minnesota Lawmakers and Their Spouses
- Vance Boelter captured, charged in shooting of Minnesota lawmakers - NPR
- Minnesota Manhunt, Arrest and Murder Charges: What We Know
- Minnesota shooting suspect went to homes of two more lawmakers
- Man suspected of shooting Minnesota lawmakers crawled to police
- Live updates: Minnesota suspect Vance Boelter captured after manhunt in ...
