Select Language

English

Down Icon

Select Country

America

Down Icon

Minnesota lawmakers shot: What was found in gunman's car? AK-style rifle, ‘No Kings’ flyers and more

Minnesota lawmakers shot: What was found in gunman's car? AK-style rifle, ‘No Kings’ flyers and more
  • News
  • World News
  • US News
  • Minnesota lawmakers shot: What was found in gunman's car? AK-style rifle, ‘No Kings’ flyers and more
Share
AA
Text Size
  • Small
  • Medium
  • Large
A manhunt is underway in Minnesota for Vance Boelter, suspected of fatally shooting a former House Speaker and her husband, and wounding a state Senator and his wife. The suspect, who impersonated a police officer, had "No Kings" flyers, linked to anti-Trump protests, in his vehicle.
As law enforcement agencies continue their massive manhunt for a man who fatally shot a Democratic state lawmaker and her husband in Minnesota's Brooklyn Park early Saturday, a chilling discovery inside his fake police vehicle is shedding light on what may have motivated the deadly rampage. He also opened fire at another Democratic Senator John Hoffman and his wife, who were seriously wounded by gunshots.Authorities revealed that the suspect, identified by police sources as Vance Boelter, had outfitted an SUV to resemble a police cruiser, complete with lights, a badge, a Taser, and tactical clothing. But what investigators found inside the car has now added a disturbing layer to the case.A massive stack of handwritten "No Kings" flyers was recovered from the vehicle, according to state patrol officials, linking the suspect to a growing wave of anti-Trump protests planned nationwide for Saturday, including across Minnesota.
Officials also recovered several AK-style firearms from the suspect's vehicle, a person told Associated Press.“The photo is of flyers inside the vehicle of the suspect in today’s shootings,” read a post by Minnesota State Patrol alongside an image of the leaflets, which were found on the seat of the ditched car.The flyers, which simply read “No Kings,” echoed the theme of demonstrations denouncing President Donald Trump.
Although no direct connection has yet been confirmed, authorities said the suspect also carried writings that mentioned the names of several lawmakers, including the victims.Despite the discovery, "there is no confirmed link between the gunman and the No Kings event," said State Patrol Col Christina Bogojevic.The attacks, which officials are calling "a politically-motivated assassination," began around 2am when the suspect, dressed in a vest, blue pants, and shirt, posed as a law enforcement officer and opened fire inside the home of state Sen. John Hoffman in Champlin. Both Hoffman and his wife were seriously wounded.Moments later, the gunman moved on to the Brooklyn Park residence of former Minnesota House Speaker Melissa Hortman. He fatally shot the Democrat and her husband before engaging in a gunfight with responding officers. The shooter managed to flee on foot and remains at large.Governor Tim Walz, who had been scheduled to speak at one of the now-cancelled anti-Trump rallies, described the killings as a targeted political attack.“This was a politically-motivated assassination,” Walz said.In response, state officials issued an urgent warning to Minnesotans, asking them to avoid demonstrations across the state “out of an abundance of caution.”“Given the targeted shootings of state lawmakers overnight, we are asking the public to not attend today’s planned demonstrations across Minnesota,” state patrol said in a statement.The attack sent shockwaves across the state, with organizers of several “No Kings” protests opting to cancel events in the wake of the tragedy. But some demonstrations went ahead regardless, despite warnings of further potential threats.Police continue to search for Boelter, while also combing through the materials in his abandoned vehicle, including the chilling flyers, to determine whether the shooting spree was part of a broader plot.Officials are expected to provide further updates as the manhunt and investigation progress.

At TOI World Desk, our dedicated team of seasoned journalists and passionate writers tirelessly sifts through the vast tapestry of global events to bring you the latest news and diverse perspectives round the clock. With an unwavering commitment to accuracy, depth, and timeliness, we strive to keep you informed about the ever-evolving world, delivering a nuanced understanding of international affairs to our readers. Join us on a journey across continents as we unravel the stories that shape our interconnected world.

End of Article
Follow Us On Social Media
Tired of too many ads?go ad free now
In World
Entire Website
Tired of too many ads?go ad free now
timesofindia.indiatimes

timesofindia.indiatimes

Similar News

All News
Animated ArrowAnimated ArrowAnimated Arrow