Who Is Vance Boelter? Suspect in Minnesota Lawmaker Melissa Hortman Shooting

On Sunday, June 15, 2025, police arrested Vance Boelter, 57, in Sibley County, Minnesota. He was wanted in connection with a deadly shooting involving Minnesota House Speaker Emerita Melissa Hortman and her husband, Mark.

Both were found shot dead in their home. Around the same time, State Senator John Hoffman and his wife, Yvette, were also attacked in a similar way. They survived the incident but suffered injuries.

Boelter’s arrest followed a statewide manhunt that lasted two days. Police found his car and hat earlier on Sunday, leading to his capture. He was taken into custody without incident.

Who Is Vance Boelter?

Vance Boelter is a pastor, businessman, and former funeral home worker from Green Isle, Minnesota. He is the CEO of Red Lion Group, a private security firm. He also works as Director of Security at another firm called Praetorian Guard Security Services.

Both firms use vehicles that look like real police cars. This allowed Boelter to move around undetected during the manhunt.

What Was Found in His Vehicle?

Inside a fake police vehicle connected to Boelter, police discovered:

• A “hit list” or manifesto

• Names of Minnesota lawmakers, including supporters of abortion rights

• Addresses of Planned Parenthood locations

• Information on organizations in the Midwest and Washington D.C.

This suggests Boelter may have been planning more attacks. The Governor of Minnesota, Tim Walz, called it an act of “targeted political violence.”

Education and Background

Boelter uses the title “Dr.” online. He has:

• A Doctorate in Educational Leadership

• A Master’s in Management

• Degrees from Cardinal Stritch University, Milwaukee

He also has experience preaching in churches and has delivered sermons in Africa.

Religious Views and Online Presence

Boelter is an Evangelical Christian. On his social media, he shares religious content and sometimes controversial views. In one video, he blamed “the enemy” for confusion in society, specifically targeting the LGBTQ+ community.

His views and online activity are now under investigation to understand if they were connected to the attacks.

Weapon Access and Security Links

Boelter had legal access to weapons and security gear. His wife, Jenny Boelter, is listed as the President of one of his companies. Their firms were equipped with police-style gear and armored vehicles.

This has raised serious concerns about how private citizens can obtain such equipment and operate security firms without stricter checks.

Connection to the Victims

Boelter and Senator Hoffman were once colleagues on the Governor’s Workforce Development Board. However, authorities are still trying to figure out how well they knew each other. There is no confirmed link between Boelter and Melissa Hortman.

What’s Next?

Police are continuing their investigation. Boelter is expected to be charged with:

• First-degree murder

• Attempted murder

• Conspiracy to commit political violence

Authorities are also reviewing his online communications, business activities, and possible connections to extremist groups.

Final Thoughts

The case of Vance Boelter has shocked the state of Minnesota. A man who appeared to be a religious leader and businessman is now accused of political violence. His arrest has raised serious questions about domestic extremism, access to weapons, and security loopholes.

The public awaits more answers as this high-profile investigation continues.