by Temitope Oladeji
17/6/2025
A Minnesota man accused of fatally shooting a Democratic state lawmaker and her husband, and injuring another lawmaker and his wife, also allegedly planned two additional assassinations of state legislators in what officials described as a “truly chilling” series of planned attacks.
Vance Luther Boelter, 57, appeared in federal court on Monday to face six federal charges, including two counts of murder, two counts of stalking, and two firearms-related offenses. The charges make him eligible for the death penalty if convicted.
Boelter is accused of killing State Representative Melissa Hortman and her husband, Mark, in the early hours of Saturday morning in the suburban part of Minneapolis.
He also allegedly shot and seriously wounded State Senator John Hoffman and his wife, Yvette, during a separate attack that same morning.
U.S. Attorney Joseph H. Thompson said Boelter had visited the homes of at least three state lawmakers during what authorities believe was a premeditated and larger-scale plot.
“This could have been far worse,” Thompson said at a Monday press conference. “We believe he intended to carry out multiple killings.”
Investigators say Boelter had researched his victims in advance, targeting them and their families.
After the attacks on the Hoffmans, he allegedly attempted to confront two other lawmakers at their homes. One was away on vacation, and officials did not identify the difference.
Authorities revealed that Boelter arrived at the Hoffmans’ home in disguise, driving a black vehicle outfitted with emergency lights and wearing a highly realistic silicone mask.
He posed as a police officer, ringing the doorbell and shouting, “This is the police, open the door.”
Surveillance footage from the Hoffmans’ front door captured the encounter.
When they opened the door, Boelter reportedly shined a flashlight at them, claiming there had been a shooting reported inside.
When the couple grew suspicious and tried to close the door, Boelter allegedly opened fire, shooting both multiple times before fleeing. Their daughter, Hope, immediately called 911.
Yvette Hoffman was shot eight times, and John Hoffman nine times. Both remain hospitalized, but Minnesota Governor Tim Walz said they are expected to recover.
After the Hoffman shooting, Boelter went to the home of a third lawmaker, who was not present.
It was gathered that he then drove to the residence of a fourth targeted official.
Authorities said a responding officer mistakenly believed Boelter was a legitimate officer sent to perform a wellness check.
When questioned, Boelter reportedly remained silent and drove away, heading next to the Hortmans’ home, where he fatally shot the couple.
In addition to the federal charges, Boelter faces state charges, including two counts of second-degree murder and two counts of attempted second-degree murder.
During his court appearance in St. Paul, Boelter wore an orange jumpsuit and told the judge he could not afford a lawyer.
He said he owns seven vehicles, has $20,000–$30,000 in savings, and earns roughly $540 per week. A federal public defender has been appointed to represent him.
Thompson emphasized the severity of the case, noting the deliberate planning and targeting of elected officials.
“This was not random. This was calculated, cold-blooded violence aimed at our public servants and their families,” he said.
The investigation remains ongoing, and authorities have not disclosed a motive.