Minnesota Lawmakers Shot; Authorities Search for 57-Year-Old Vance Boelter
MINNEAPOLIS, MN — June 14, 2025 — A manhunt is underway for a 57-year-old Minnesota man in connection with a shocking and brazen act of political violence. Authorities have confirmed to the Associated Press that two Minnesota lawmakers were shot in what officials are calling a “targeted attack.” The suspect being sought has been identified as Vance Luther Boelter, a figure who once held public trust through appointments to key state workforce boards.
Boelter, who previously served on Minnesota’s Workforce Development Council in 2016 under Governor Mark Dayton and was later appointed in 2019 to a four-year term on the Governor’s Workforce Development Board by Governor Tim Walz, is now the subject of an intensive search led by state and local law enforcement.
Boelter’s ties to public service are deep, making this turn of events all the more alarming. Once regarded as a contributor to Minnesota’s workforce and economic planning, Boelter is now at the center of a criminal investigation that has rocked the state’s political and civic communities. The shooting, which left two elected lawmakers seriously injured, occurred in an undisclosed location that sources say may have been selected with deliberate intent.
The names of the injured lawmakers have not yet been publicly released, pending notifications and further security assessments. However, multiple sources have confirmed that both victims are active state legislators and were believed to have been specifically targeted.
Law enforcement agencies, including the Minnesota Bureau of Criminal Apprehension (BCA), are working around the clock to locate Boelter, who is considered armed and dangerous. Details surrounding the motive remain unclear, but investigators are exploring possible political or personal grievances as potential drivers of the attack.
Authorities have not released information about the type of firearm used or how Boelter fled the scene. As the search continues, officials are urging the public to remain vigilant and report any sightings or relevant information to law enforcement immediately.
“This is an attack not just on individuals, but on our democratic institutions,” said one state official who spoke on the condition of anonymity. “The safety of our elected leaders must be paramount.”
Governor Tim Walz’s office has not yet issued a formal statement on Boelter’s alleged involvement but has confirmed that all cabinet members and legislators are being briefed and offered security as needed.
The incident has already prompted a review of safety protocols for public officials throughout the state, and a heightened security presence has been deployed at the Minnesota State Capitol and surrounding government facilities.
Anyone with information on Vance Boelter’s whereabouts is urged to call 911 or contact the nearest law enforcement agency. Tips can also be submitted anonymously through the BCA’s official hotline.
As the state awaits further details, Minnesotans are coming together in support of the injured legislators and in a collective call for justice and peace.
