⚠️ FBI: Minnesota Shooting Suspect Was a Doomsday Prepper
The man accused of killing a Minnesota lawmaker and her husband in a politically charged shooting rampage was a known doomsday prepper, the FBI has confirmed.
Vance Luther Boelter, 57, was arrested following the fatal shooting of Democratic House Speaker Emerita Melissa Hortman and her husband, Mark Hortman, last Saturday. He also allegedly shot and seriously wounded State Senator John Hoffman and his wife, Yvette.
Court documents reveal that Boelter and his family prepared for catastrophic events and societal breakdowns — a practice known as “prepping”.
Shooter’s Wife Confirms Prepper Lifestyle
Boelter’s wife, Jenny Boelter, told FBI investigators that her family was actively involved in survivalist preparation, which included having evacuation plans, stockpiling weapons, and keeping emergency cash and passports ready.
“The text stated something to the effect of ‘prepare for war’… people with guns may be showing up to the house,” FBI Special Agent Terry Getsch wrote in the affidavit.
When she was pulled over hours after the shootings, authorities found $10,000 in cash, two firearms, and multiple passports in her vehicle. She was transporting the couple’s four children to safety and has not been charged with a crime.
Boelter’s “Bailout Plan” and Red Lion Security
Jenny Boelter also revealed that her husband had created a “bailout plan” in case the family needed to flee their home. She noted that he operated a security and fishing business called Red Lion, based in Congo, Africa, with a partner in Washington state.
Law Enforcement and Public Reaction
Boelter was captured after a two-day manhunt, hiding in the woods. Authorities believe the attack may have been politically motivated and that additional targets were potentially planned.
The shootings have sent shockwaves through Minnesota and the broader political community, coming at a time of heightened political tensions and rising violence against public officials.
Broader Implications of Prepper Extremism
The revelation that Boelter was a prepper with international business ties and a cache of resources underscores growing concerns about the intersection between survivalist ideology and political violence in the U.S.
As the FBI continues to investigate, the case raises urgent questions about domestic extremism, preparedness culture, and the vulnerability of public servants.
