How Vance Boelter Was Captured: Inside the Two-Day Manhunt That Shook Minnesota

Vance Luther Boelter, the man accused of carrying out a deadly attack that left a former Minnesota lawmaker dead and others wounded, was captured late Sunday evening following a tense 48-hour manhunt that mobilized hundreds of law enforcement officers across the state.

The search for Boelter—who is facing murder and attempted murder charges—concluded after he was located in a wooded area outside Anoka County. Officials say surveillance drones and thermal imaging played a key role in identifying the suspect’s hiding place. He was taken into custody without further incident, ending a manhunt that had placed parts of the Twin Cities metro on lockdown.

Governor Walz: “We will not let fear win”

In a somber address on Monday, Minnesota Governor Tim Walz confirmed Boelter’s capture and reflected on the devastating impact of the attack.

Former House Speaker Melissa Hortman, known for her bipartisan leadership and calm pragmatism, was fatally shot while attending a private gathering. Her husband, Mark Hortman, remains hospitalized in critical condition. Officials have confirmed the attack was politically motivated, though the precise motive has not been publicly disclosed.

Tributes and Warnings

Governor Walz addressed the broader implications of the tragedy, warning against political division and calling for healing through “humility, grace, and civility.”

He also praised the courage of survivors and first responders:

The governor concluded by urging Minnesotans and Americans alike not to surrender to fear:

Watch: Governor Walz’s Full Press Conference

Justice will be served. pic.twitter.com/idImOQmuNj

— Governor Tim Walz (@GovTimWalz) June 16, 2025

Boelter remains in custody and is expected to be formally arraigned later this week. Prosecutors are working to determine whether federal charges will also be filed in the case.

What We Know So Far: Details from the Star Tribune

According to a detailed report by the Star Tribune:

• Vance Boelter was arrested Sunday night and charged with two counts of second-degree murder and two counts of second-degree attempted murder.
• Read the charges against Vance Boelter.
• Hortman, the top Democrat in the Minnesota House, was shot and killed along with her husband.
• An abandoned vehicle belonging to Boelter was found in Sibley County.
• Sen. John Hoffman and his wife are awake and will issue a statement when able.
• Boelter’s wife was stopped by law enforcement on Saturday.
• Authorities say the suspect impersonated law enforcement and that a “manifesto” was recovered with lawmaker names. The list reportedly included 50 to 70 individuals and organizations, including Planned Parenthood locations.