Context:

Vance Luther Boelter, a 57-year-old suspect, is being pursued in a national manhunt for allegedly carrying out politically motivated shootings in Minnesota that resulted in the death of Democratic state Rep. Melissa Hortman and her husband. Authorities report that Boelter disguised himself as a law enforcement officer during the attacks and has falsely claimed a professional background in security, despite a career largely in the food service industry. A $50,000 reward is offered for information leading to his capture, and he is considered armed and dangerous. Investigations are ongoing to uncover his true background and potential motives, with officials exploring connections to his alleged targets, including state Sen. John Hoffman. Minnesota Governor Tim Walz condemned the violence as a targeted political assassination and praised Hortman for her dedication to public service, emphasizing the importance of peaceful discourse in democracy.

Dive Deeper:

• Vance Luther Boelter is the main suspect in a series of shootings in Minnesota targeting Democratic lawmakers, resulting in the death of Rep. Melissa Hortman and her husband. The incident is being investigated as politically motivated, with Boelter having disguised himself as a law enforcement officer during the attacks.

• Boelter's claims of being a security professional have been largely debunked, as NPR's investigation reveals his career was predominantly in the food service industry. His online profiles and social media posts that suggest extensive security training appear to be fabricated.

• Authorities have launched a nationwide manhunt, offering a $50,000 reward for information leading to Boelter's capture. He is considered armed and dangerous, and the public is advised to contact law enforcement without engaging if spotted.

• Investigators are examining Boelter's background, including a potential connection to Sen. John Hoffman, another target in the shootings. Boelter previously served on the Minnesota governor's Workforce Development Board, where he may have encountered Hoffman.

• Governor Tim Walz has called the attacks an 'unspeakable tragedy' and emphasized the need for peaceful resolution of political differences. Flags were ordered at half-staff in honor of Hortman, who was lauded for her dedication and service to the state.

• Boelter's friend, David Carlson, indicated that Boelter harbored ambitions of starting a security firm, which never materialized, describing these plans as a 'fantasy.' Boelter's background claims also include unsubstantiated work in the Democratic Republic of Congo.

• Authorities continue to investigate Boelter's possible motives and any potential accomplices, as his writings and past actions are scrutinized for further insights into the attacks. Law enforcement urges anyone with information to come forward to aid in the ongoing investigation.