Manhunt Escalates as Suspect’s Car Found in Minnesota Political Shooting Case
Law enforcement officials are intensifying their search for Vance Boelter, the suspect linked to the shocking shootings that left Minnesota Assemblywoman Melissa Hortman and her husband dead, and State Senator John Hoffman and his wife gravely injured.
Abandoned Buick Sedan Discovered Far from Crime Scenes
On Sunday morning, the Sibley County Sheriff’s Office confirmed to CNN that Boelter’s alleged vehicle — a Buick sedan — was found abandoned about 50 miles southwest of Minneapolis.
The shootings occurred in two separate suburbs of the Twin Cities — Brooklyn Park and Champlin — but the car’s discovery miles away signals the suspect’s attempt to evade capture.
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Authorities towed the vehicle from the scene, and searches have expanded to homes nearby as police investigate further.
Clues Link Suspect to the Crime Scene
Adding to the intrigue, CBS reports that a cowboy hat was found near the abandoned car — eerily matching a photo obtained by law enforcement showing Boelter wearing a similar hat at a Minneapolis business just the day before.
It remains unclear if it’s the exact same hat, but the detail adds a chilling layer to the manhunt.
Community Alert and Safety Precautions
While there is no shelter-in-place order currently, deputies are urging residents in the surrounding areas to remain cautious and vigilant.
Authorities continue to work swiftly to locate Boelter, who is considered extremely dangerous.
Wife Detained Amid Investigation
In a dramatic development, Boelter’s wife, Jenny Boelter, was stopped and detained hours after the shootings, according to reports from 5 Eyewitness News.
Law enforcement sources say officers found a weapon, ammunition, cash, and passports in her car during the stop — raising questions about possible involvement or knowledge of the events.
The Shocking Twin Cities Shootings
The attacks unfolded early Saturday morning, shocking the state and sending ripples of fear through the community.
- Assemblywoman Melissa Hortman and her husband, Mark, tragically lost their lives.
- State Senator John Hoffman and his wife, Yvette, were both shot multiple times but are currently in stable condition after emergency surgery.
Dispatch audio obtained by TMZ revealed that a bullet nearly struck Senator Hoffman’s heart — a harrowing detail underscoring how close to tragedy the victims came.
The Suspect’s Deceptive Tactics
Officials say Boelter impersonated a police officer, reportedly driving a vehicle resembling a police car to get close to his victims and gain their trust before attacking.
Boelter has a background working for a security company with alleged overseas experience and training from U.S. military personnel — making the manhunt even more urgent given his skills.
FBI Offers $50,000 Reward for Capture
To accelerate his arrest, the FBI has announced a $50,000 reward for anyone providing information leading to Boelter’s capture and conviction.
Authorities are appealing to the public for tips and assistance, emphasizing the danger Boelter poses.
What’s Next?
Law enforcement agencies continue door-to-door searches in the area while coordinating with federal authorities to track down Boelter.
The community remains on edge as this high-profile case unfolds, with many hoping for a swift resolution.
Stay tuned for updates on this developing story. What are your thoughts on the investigation? Drop a comment below and share your support for the victims and their families.
