What we know about Vance Boelter and the shootings of two Minnesota lawmakers and spouses

State Rep. Melissa Hortman and her husband were shot and killed in their Brooklyn Park home on Saturday, with State Sen. John Hoffman and his wife also injured in the attack. Vance Luther Boelter, 57, was arrested and faces charges of second-degree murder and attempted murder, with plans to elevate these to first-degree charges. The shootings occurred after Boelter posed as a police officer, allegedly forcing his way into the Hoffman home and opening fire.

Police found three AK-47 rifles, a 9 mm handgun, and a list of names and addresses of public officials in Boelter's vehicle, revealing a potentially broader threat. The federal government is also pursuing six charges against Boelter, including murder and stalking, which could lead to severe penalties. Acting U. S. Attorney Joseph Thompson emphasized the gravity of the situation, stating that the murder charges could result in life imprisonment or even death.

In response to the violence, authorities are conducting thorough checks on other officials' safety, particularly those named in Boelter's possession. This incident highlights the alarming trend of political violence against lawmakers, raising urgent discussions about security measures in the political arena.