Federal grand jury indicts Vance Boelter, accused of killing former Minn. House Speaker Melissa Hortman

Vance Boelter has been indicted on federal charges for the murders of former Minnesota House Speaker Melissa Hortman and her husband, Mark, as well as the attempted murders of state Senator John Hoffman and his wife. The indictment includes murder, stalking, and firearms charges, with the possibility of the death penalty looming over the case. Prosecutors allege that Boelter, 57, drove a fake police vehicle and wore tactical gear during the attacks, targeting Democratic lawmakers. After shooting the Hoffmans, he proceeded to kill the Hortmans, leaving behind notebooks listing other potential targets. Boelter, who identifies as a politically conservative evangelical Christian, has denied that his actions were motivated by his political views.

His case has gained significant media attention, especially after President Biden's visit to the injured senator. Local leaders are alarmed by the implications of this political violence, emphasizing the need for safety among public officials. The federal case will take precedence over state charges against Boelter.