Fact Check: "Minnesota shooting suspect was a doomsday 'prepper', FBI reveals"
What We Know
The suspect in a recent shooting incident in Minnesota, Vance Boelter, has been identified by the FBI as a doomsday "prepper." According to an FBI affidavit, Boelter's wife, Jenny, informed investigators that their family was part of a small group of individuals who prepare for catastrophic events. This characterization aligns with the definition of "preppers," who typically stockpile supplies and develop survival strategies for potential disasters (BBC, Washington Post).
Boelter has been charged with the fatal shootings of Democratic House Speaker Emerita Melissa Hortman and her husband, Mark, as well as seriously wounding Democratic State Senator John Hoffman and his wife, Yvette. Evidence suggests that Boelter had been planning to target additional individuals (New York Times). After the shootings, he sent a text to his wife instructing her to "prepare for war" and flee their home, indicating a premeditated mindset (BBC).
Analysis
The characterization of Vance Boelter as a doomsday "prepper" is supported by multiple credible sources, including the FBI's own affidavit. The affidavit details that Boelter had a "bailout plan" for his family in case of an emergency and that he had sent alarming messages to his wife regarding potential violence (Washington Post). This aligns with the behaviors typically associated with individuals who identify as preppers.
However, it is important to note that while many preppers engage in non-violent preparations for emergencies, Boelter's actions diverge significantly from this norm. His violent rampage and the targeting of political figures suggest a more extreme interpretation of preparedness, which may not reflect the broader prepper community (New York Times).
The sources used in this fact-check are reputable news organizations and official statements from law enforcement, which enhances their reliability. The information provided is consistent across multiple outlets, reinforcing the claim's validity.
Conclusion
The claim that the Minnesota shooting suspect, Vance Boelter, was a doomsday "prepper" is True. The evidence presented by the FBI and corroborated by various news sources clearly supports this characterization. Boelter's actions and the information provided by his wife indicate a mindset consistent with that of individuals who prepare for catastrophic events, albeit with a violent twist that is not representative of the broader prepper community.
