Who is Vance Boelter? Suspect in Minnesota Democrat Shootings Named

Vance Luther Boelter, 57, is named as the suspect in the shooting deaths of Minnesota lawmakers Melissa Hortman and the assassination attempt on Senator John Hoffman. With a background in security and public service, Boelter is yet to be apprehended, while law enforcement investigates alarming links to a manifesto containing numerous targets. Police urge public caution amid the ongoing manhunt.

Vance Luther Boelter, a 57-year-old man with a background in armed security and a history of public service, is now the main suspect in the shooting deaths of two Minnesota lawmakers. Boelter has been identified in connection with the fatal shooting of Melissa Hortman and an assassination attempt on Senator John Hoffman. Both incidents took place early on a Saturday morning at their homes. Hortman and her husband were shot around 2 a.m., while Hoffman and his wife were targeted shortly after, at around 4 a.m.

According to his biography, Boelter has obtained experience in armed security spanning continents—particularly claiming work in the Middle East, Africa, Eastern Europe, and North America with Praetorian Guard Security Services. The biography indicated, “He brings a great security aspect forged by both many on the ground experiences combined with training by both private security firms and by people in the US Military.”

Before today’s grim events, Boelter also engaged in public service, having served as a member of Minnesota’s Governor’s Workforce Development Board under Governor Tim Walz. His tenure included a span from June 2016 to June 2018 and again from December 2019 until January 2023. In these roles, he advised on workforce development alongside the governor.

Adding to his profile, Boelter previously held a CEO position at the now-defunct Red Lion Group in the Democratic Republic of Congo. His LinkedIn profile states he began there in December 2021 and was involved in ‘private business projects’ in the region. Recent updates show he has since returned to the U.S. and is pursuing opportunities in the food industry, with specific interest in locations like Texas and Minnesota.

His previous professional experiences include managerial roles at companies like 7-Eleven and Del Monte Foods. Notably, Boelter’s LinkedIn mentioned his political engagement as he previously encouraged social media followers to vote ahead of the 2020 election, based on his international experiences observed in countries lacking democratic processes.

As the investigation continues, reports indicate that law enforcement is still trying to track down Boelter. Investigators believe the shooter may have impersonated a police officer to gain entry into both lawmakers’ residences. The police have launched a manhunt involving local law enforcement, sheriff’s offices, and the FBI.

At a news conference on Saturday, officials provided alarming details, revealing the suspect’s vehicle had contained a manifesto that listed numerous targets, including both lawmakers who were shot. Brooklyn Park Police Chief Mark Bruley noted, “We immediately made alerts to the state, who took action,” referencing increased security measures for other officials as a result of the manifesto. Further examination of Boelter’s vehicle produced information indicating nearly 70 names connected to the ongoing investigation, which included various lawmakers and abortion providers.

As the manhunt intensifies, the Minnesota State Patrol has cautioned individuals against attending scheduled anti-Trump protests until the situation stabilizes. They fear the gatherings could be at risk of becoming further targets while the search for Boelter, the prime suspect, remains ongoing. Law enforcement is doing their utmost to ensure public safety and protect other officials in light of this disturbing incident.

In summary, Vance Luther Boelter, a suspect in the tragic shootings of two Minnesota lawmakers, has a background in armed security and public service. The investigation has uncovered various troubling details, including a manifesto linking him to other potential targets. As law enforcement continues their search, community safety remains a top priority, and authorities urge caution regarding upcoming protests.

Original Source: www.dailymail.co.uk