The wife of accused Minnesota lawmaker gunman Vance Boelter expressed shock and heartbreak over the shootings allegedly carried out by her husband. In a statement released by her attorneys, Jenny Boelter extended her deepest sympathies to the families of the victims, stating that she and her children were completely blindsided by the tragic events. She described the actions as a betrayal of their Christian faith and conveyed their horror and sadness over the unfathomable tragedy.
Vance Boelter is accused of shooting and killing Democratic Minnesota state Rep. Melissa Hortman and her husband, Mark, at their home, as well as shooting and wounding Democratic state Sen. John Hoffman and his wife, Yvette, at their residence. Allegedly impersonating a police officer and wearing a realistic mask, Boelter carried out what prosecutors described as “political assassinations.”
Following the shootings, law enforcement found a list of elected officials in Boelter’s car, indicating a potential plan for additional attacks. Jenny Boelter emphasized that her family has fully cooperated with authorities since the beginning, willingly meeting with investigators and providing all requested information.
While Jenny Boelter stated that they cooperated voluntarily, authorities claim that law enforcement stopped her car and conducted a search, finding a safe, passports, cash, and firearms. The investigation surrounding the tragic events continues as Vance Boelter faces federal charges for the shootings.
Earlier that morning, Jenny Boelter received a distressing text from her husband in a group chat with their children, as stated in court documents. The message warned of potential conflict and the need to vacate their home, cautioning that armed individuals might arrive at their doorstep. The affidavit revealed that the Boelters were known as “preppers,” individuals who prepare for extreme circumstances. Jenny had been given a contingency plan by her husband to seek refuge at her mother’s house in Spring Brook, Wisconsin in case of an emergency.
Law enforcement confirmed that no arrests were made, and Jenny Boelter cooperated fully with authorities. After an intensive 48-hour search, Vance Boelter was peacefully apprehended. Jenny expressed gratitude towards the authorities for capturing Vance and preventing further harm in a statement.
Vance Boelter is now facing federal charges of stalking and state charges of first-degree murder. He has not entered a plea and is scheduled to appear in court for a preliminary hearing on Friday. ABC News correspondents Sasha Pezenik and Christiane Cordero contributed to this report.
