Suspect Identified in the Homicide of Minnesota Lawmaker
Vensa Luther Butler named as suspect in the murders of Democratic Representative Melissa Hortman and her husband, amid ongoing investigations into related incidents.
Authorities in Minnesota have identified Vensa Luther Butler, approximately 50 years old, as the suspect in the murders of Democratic Representative Melissa Hortman and her husband.
The search for Butler continues as law enforcement agencies move to apprehend him.
In addition to the fatalities, Butler is also alleged to have wounded Democratic Senator John Hoffman and his wife, both of whom underwent surgery for their injuries and are reportedly in a cautiously optimistic condition regarding their survival.
Reports indicate that Butler's vehicle contained a list of over 50 potential targets, including out-of-state officials, abortion rights activists, and medical personnel involved in the procedure.
Additionally, flyers referring to ongoing 'No Kings' protests against former President Donald Trump were found in his vehicle.
Minnesota Governor Tim Walz described the incident as seemingly a politically motivated homicide.
In a concerning development, authorities reported that, after Hoffman was shot, officers encountered Butler, who was dressed in a police-like vest and badge, carrying a stun gun and other equipment as he exited his residence.
Butler reportedly fired upon the police and fled on foot, leaving behind what appeared to be a police vehicle in the driveway of the Hortman residence.
Witness accounts indicate that an armed individual attempted to solicit congressional members by knocking on their doors and urging victims to step outside.
President Donald Trump has been informed of the shooting and stated through White House spokesperson Caroline Leavitt that such 'horrific violence will not be tolerated.'
The deputy director of the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI), Dan Bongino, affirmed that the agency is fully engaged on the ground in Minnesota, assisting local law enforcement in the investigation.
In light of the ongoing search for the suspect disguised as a police officer, local authorities have advised residents in two suburbs of Minneapolis to remain indoors.
Governor Walz announced the activation of the Minnesota Emergency Operations Center and pledged to allocate all state resources to assist local police during this crisis.
The search for Butler continues as law enforcement agencies move to apprehend him.
In addition to the fatalities, Butler is also alleged to have wounded Democratic Senator John Hoffman and his wife, both of whom underwent surgery for their injuries and are reportedly in a cautiously optimistic condition regarding their survival.
Reports indicate that Butler's vehicle contained a list of over 50 potential targets, including out-of-state officials, abortion rights activists, and medical personnel involved in the procedure.
Additionally, flyers referring to ongoing 'No Kings' protests against former President Donald Trump were found in his vehicle.
Minnesota Governor Tim Walz described the incident as seemingly a politically motivated homicide.
In a concerning development, authorities reported that, after Hoffman was shot, officers encountered Butler, who was dressed in a police-like vest and badge, carrying a stun gun and other equipment as he exited his residence.
Butler reportedly fired upon the police and fled on foot, leaving behind what appeared to be a police vehicle in the driveway of the Hortman residence.
Witness accounts indicate that an armed individual attempted to solicit congressional members by knocking on their doors and urging victims to step outside.
President Donald Trump has been informed of the shooting and stated through White House spokesperson Caroline Leavitt that such 'horrific violence will not be tolerated.'
The deputy director of the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI), Dan Bongino, affirmed that the agency is fully engaged on the ground in Minnesota, assisting local law enforcement in the investigation.
In light of the ongoing search for the suspect disguised as a police officer, local authorities have advised residents in two suburbs of Minneapolis to remain indoors.
Governor Walz announced the activation of the Minnesota Emergency Operations Center and pledged to allocate all state resources to assist local police during this crisis.
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