MINNESOTA UNDER SIEGE: State Senator John Hoffman Critically Injured, Wife Also Shot as Manhunt for Armed Suspect Vance Boelter Intensifies

SIBLEY COUNTY, MN — June 15, 2025 — Minnesota is reeling after a harrowing and brazen act of political violence that left one Democratic lawmaker dead and another gravely wounded. State Senator John Hoffman, 56, was struck nine times by gunfire during a targeted shooting that has shaken the political and civic fabric of the state. His wife, who was with him at the time, sustained eight gunshot wounds. Both remain hospitalized in critical condition.

Authorities have identified the alleged gunman as Vance Boelter, a 44-year-old man with suspected extremist ties, who fled the scene following the shooting. He is currently at large, and a statewide emergency alert has been issued as police launched a door-to-door manhunt after Boelter’s vehicle was located in rural Sibley County.

A Chilling Ambush

The attack unfolded in what officials have described as a calculated ambush. Sources confirm that Boelter was disguised in a latex mask and dressed in dark clothing when he opened fire on a group of Democratic legislators and their family members outside a private residence near Bloomington.

While the names of the deceased lawmaker have not been officially released pending notification of next of kin, several sources have confirmed that the victim was an active member of the Minnesota House of Representatives and a longtime ally of Senator Hoffman.

The wounded, Senator Hoffman and his wife, were rushed to Hennepin County Medical Center, where they both underwent emergency surgeries. As of Sunday morning, they remained in intensive care, surrounded by family and under 24-hour watch.

Suspect Identified and Considered Armed & Dangerous

Boelter’s vehicle, a grey 2020 Chevrolet Traverse, was discovered abandoned near a wooded area off County Road 8 in Sibley County late Saturday night. Tactical teams from multiple law enforcement agencies, including the Minnesota State Patrol and U.S. Marshals, have converged on the area and are conducting door-to-door searches. Helicopters and K-9 units have also been deployed.

Officials believe Boelter may still be in the area and is armed and dangerous. Residents are being urged to stay inside, lock their doors, and report any suspicious activity. An Emergency Alert was issued to all mobile devices in the region warning residents of the active manhunt.

Boelter has a history of anti-government rhetoric posted on fringe social media platforms. Though no motive has been officially confirmed, early indications suggest the attack was politically motivated, and potentially connected to Boelter’s views on recent legislative initiatives spearheaded by Democratic leaders in the state.

A State in Shock

Governor Tim Walz called the shooting an “abhorrent and cowardly act of domestic terrorism,” adding, “We will not be intimidated by violence. Our elected officials must be safe to do the work of democracy, free of fear.”

Flags across Minnesota will be flown at half-staff in honor of the slain lawmaker, and vigils are being organized across the Twin Cities.

State Capitol security has been increased significantly, with Minnesota State Troopers visibly present at key government buildings. Lawmakers, many of whom are still in session, are receiving additional protection, and several public events have been postponed or canceled out of caution.

Public Urged to Assist

Authorities are pleading with the public to assist in locating Boelter. Anyone with surveillance video, especially from areas around Sibley County, or those who may have seen anything suspicious, is urged to submit information—anonymously if desired—via Tip411 or by calling the Minnesota Bureau of Criminal Apprehension (BCA) tip line.

The manhunt continues into the night, as communities across Minnesota anxiously await word on Senator Hoffman’s recovery and hope for the swift capture of the suspect responsible for this heinous act.

This is a developing story. Updates will be provided as they become available.