Vance Boelter, the individual charged with shooting two Minnesota lawmakers and their spouses, was revealed to be a doomsday “prepper” who urged his family to brace for war as he attempted to escape authorities. The tragic incident involved the fatal shooting of Democratic state house speaker emerita Melissa Hortman and her husband, as well as the serious injury of state senator John Hoffman and his wife. After the shootings, Boelter’s wife and children were stopped by law enforcement near Lake Mille Lacs, where authorities discovered firearms, cash, passports, and a message from Boelter instructing his family to prepare for conflict.

The affidavit indicated that Boelter and his wife were preppers, individuals who stockpile resources to survive potential disasters. Boelter had provided his wife with a “bailout plan” detailing actions to take during emergencies, including heading to Wisconsin. Further details emerged about Boelter’s business connections and activities, shedding light on possible motivations for his actions.

The manhunt for Boelter, who attempted to evade arrest by fleeing into a wooded area, ended with his capture two days later. While Boelter disguised himself as a police officer during the attacks and had a storage locker containing firearms and a “hit list” of targets, there is no implication that his wife was aware of his alleged plans. The chilling incident has sparked reflection on the risks faced by public servants and the broader implications for free speech and assembly rights in the US.