Minnesota Lawmaker Shooting Suspect Was 'Prepper' Preparing for War

Vance Boelter, a 57-year-old man charged in connection with the shootings of two Minnesota lawmakers and their spouses, was a doomsday 'prepper' who advised his family to 'prepare for war' as he evaded capture, according to court filings. Boelter faces multiple federal and state murder charges for allegedly killing Democratic Minnesota state house speaker emerita Melissa Hortman and her husband, Mark, as well as seriously wounding Democratic state senator John Hoffman and his wife, Yvette. Law enforcement found weapons, cash, and a safe in Boelter's wife's vehicle during a traffic stop near Lake Mille Lacs. Boelter's wife stated he had sent a message to their children, urging them to leave their house as 'people with guns' might arrive. Boelter and his wife were identified as preppers, stockpiling weapons, food, and gasoline to survive potential disasters. Boelter had a 'bailout plan' for his family, instructing them to go to his mother-in-law's residence in Wisconsin. He was eventually captured after a massive manhunt, disguised as a police officer and driving an SUV with a 'police' license plate. A storage locker rented by Boelter contained empty rifle cases, gun-cleaning supplies, and a bike. A 'hit list' in his vehicle included Democratic lawmakers and reproductive rights advocates.