Stuff of nightmares Alleged killer stalked lawmakers, stopped at four homes the night of killings

Vance Boelter, 57, faces state and federal charges for the murders of Rep. Melissa Hortman and her husband Mark, as well as the shootings of Sen. John Hoffman and his wife. The federal complaint, filed on June 16, 2025, outlines Boelter's meticulous planning, including stalking lawmakers and using a police disguise to gain access to their homes. Acting U.

S. Attorney Joe Thompson characterized the situation as a "political assassination," emphasizing its implications for democracy and political extremism in the U. S. After evading law enforcement for 43 hours, Boelter was arrested in rural Minnesota. He now faces six federal charges, including two counts of stalking and two counts of murder, which could lead to a death sentence if convicted.

Additionally, Hennepin County Attorney Mary Moriarty intends to pursue first-degree murder charges in district court. The case has sparked widespread concern about political violence and the safety of public officials. Boelter's actions highlight a disturbing trend of political extremism that poses a threat to democratic institutions.