Fact Check: "The suspect in the Minnesota shootings, Vance Luther Boelter, was disguised as a police officer and used a vehicle that resembled a police car."
What We Know
The suspect in the recent shootings of two Minnesota lawmakers, Vance Luther Boelter, was indeed disguised as a police officer during the attacks. Reports indicate that he wore a latex mask and posed as a police officer when he shot the victims at their homes in suburban Minneapolis (BBC News). Additionally, authorities confirmed that Boelter used a vehicle that resembled a police car, equipped with flashing emergency lights, to facilitate his escape after the shootings (AP News). The violence occurred early on a Saturday morning, targeting State Senator John Hoffman and his wife, Yvette, as well as former House Speaker Melissa Hortman and her husband, Mark, resulting in the tragic death of the Hortmans (New York Times).
Analysis
The claim that Vance Luther Boelter was disguised as a police officer and used a police-like vehicle is corroborated by multiple credible sources. The BBC News article provides detailed accounts of the events, stating that Boelter posed as a police officer and that his vehicle was designed to look like a police car. This information is further supported by the AP News report, which explicitly mentions Boelter's use of a police-like vehicle and his disguise during the attacks.
The reliability of these sources is high, as they are established news organizations known for their journalistic standards. The New York Times, BBC, and AP News have a long history of reporting on significant events and are generally regarded as trustworthy. Additionally, the information aligns with statements from law enforcement officials, which adds to its credibility.
However, it is important to note that while these reports are consistent, the context surrounding the events is still unfolding, and further details may emerge as investigations continue. Nonetheless, the core elements of the claim—Boelter's disguise as a police officer and the use of a police-like vehicle—are well-supported by the evidence available.
Conclusion
Verdict: True
The claim that Vance Luther Boelter was disguised as a police officer and used a vehicle resembling a police car is accurate. Multiple credible sources confirm these details, providing a clear picture of the suspect's actions during the tragic events that unfolded in Minnesota.
Sources
- What We Know About the Minnesota Shooting Suspect
- Minnesota police find car of suspect in shootings of two lawmakers
- Man suspected of shooting 2 Minnesota lawmakers is in custody after surrendering to the police
- Suspect in Minnesota political shootings had 'fantasy'
- What we know about Vance Boelter, suspected Minnesota shooter at-large
- Suspect in custody after shooting Minnesota lawmakers