Newly unsealed court documents have shed chilling light on the man behind the deadly attack on Minnesota lawmakers. The suspect, Vance Boelter, is described as a heavily armed “prepper” who meticulously planned not only the shootings but also a detailed escape strategy for his family.
A Prepper With a “Bailout Plan”
According to an FBI affidavit, Boelter and his wife had long embraced a survivalist lifestyle. Their home was stocked with weapons, ammunition, cash, passports, and supplies—signs of preparation for societal collapse. After launching the attacks, Boelter instructed his wife to flee with their four children to a relative’s house in Spring Brook, Wisconsin, in what investigators labeled a “bailout plan.”
Authorities say Boelter’s actions were not impulsive. In the days leading up to the shooting, he accessed a storage locker filled with tactical gear, rifles, and military-grade supplies. His planning, prosecutors argue, reflects an alarming blend of extremism, survivalist ideology, and premeditated political violence.
Targeted Killings Spark National Outrage
On June 14, 2025, Boelter impersonated a police officer, donning tactical gear and a fake badge. He approached Senator John Hoffman and his wife outside their home in Champlin, shooting them both multiple times. Later that night, he fatally shot former Minnesota House Speaker Melissa Hortman and her husband in their Brooklyn Park residence.
Senator Hoffman survived despite being hit nine times; his wife was shot eight times. Both are recovering in critical care. The brutal murder of Melissa Hortman—a respected state leader—sent shockwaves through the political community.
A Hit List of 70 Names
Law enforcement discovered a chilling “hit list” in Boelter’s vehicle, containing approximately 70 names of public officials, activists, and journalists. Many of the targets were associated with reproductive rights and progressive legislation, suggesting the attack was ideologically motivated.
Investigators also recovered encrypted messages, survival manuals, and handwritten notes indicating Boelter expected societal collapse or government retaliation. His online footprint showed growing alignment with anti-government and far-right conspiracy theories.
FBI and Lawmakers Respond
The FBI has classified the attack as an act of domestic terrorism. Rep. Ilhan Omar and other Minnesota lawmakers have called for increased protections for elected officials amid rising political extremism.
“This was not random. It was targeted, calculated, and deeply disturbing,” said Rep. Omar. “We cannot ignore the growing threat of politically motivated violence in America.”
Boelter is being held without bail and faces multiple state and federal charges, including first-degree murder, attempted murder, terrorism, and conspiracy.
Conclusion
The Minnesota lawmaker attack is a stark reminder of the threat posed by radicalized individuals who blend personal ideology with military-style tactics. As the investigation deepens, the nation faces urgent questions about how to prevent future acts of political violence rooted in domestic extremism.
