Context:

Former Minnesota House Speaker Melissa Hortman will lie in state at the Minnesota Capitol rotunda after she, her husband, and their dog were victims of a violent attack. The accused, Vance Boelter, will appear in court as he faces charges for what has been described as a 'political assassination' following a large-scale search for his arrest. Boelter allegedly targeted other Democratic lawmakers, and his motives remain unclear, with prosecutors considering both federal and state charges. His wife, Jenny, expressed shock and dismay over the events, stating they contradict their family's beliefs. The investigation revealed Boelter as a 'prepper' with a large collection of firearms, while his wife cooperated with law enforcement following the incident.

Dive Deeper:

• Melissa Hortman, a former Minnesota House Speaker, will be honored by lying in state at the Minnesota Capitol, following a tragic incident where she, her husband, and their dog were attacked. The public is invited to pay their respects, and a private funeral will be held, attended by notable figures such as former Vice President Kamala Harris.

• Vance Boelter, the alleged perpetrator, is facing charges and court proceedings for what the chief federal prosecutor termed a 'political assassination'. His arrest followed the largest search operation in Minnesota's history, and he is accused of targeting multiple Democratic lawmakers.

• Boelter's actions included shooting and wounding state Sen. John Hoffman and his wife, Yvette, before attacking the Hortmans in their home. He is also suspected of planning further attacks on other Democratic officials, as evidenced by his possession of a list of potential targets.

• Boelter's motive remains speculative as he has not entered a plea, and his legal team has refrained from commenting. Federal authorities aim to prosecute him first, and his charges could potentially lead to a federal death penalty, despite Minnesota's historical abolition of it.

• Jenny Boelter, the suspect's wife, expressed her family's shock and sorrow over the incident, stating it goes against their Christian faith. She has cooperated with investigations, denying any involvement, and law enforcement has confirmed her cooperation after stopping her on the day of the shootings.

• Investigators discovered Boelter had prepared for catastrophic events, owning 48 guns, and described him as a 'prepper'. His wife and children have distanced themselves from his actions, emphasizing their disbelief and heartbreak over the situation.

• The FBI's involvement highlights the severity of the case, with federal and state charges being considered. The legal proceedings are closely watched, as they may set a precedent for similar cases in Minnesota and across the United States.