Assassin Suspect Claims Links to Politicians and China
Luther Belter, the suspect in the recent assassination case, alleged he was involved in a secret investigation regarding what he called “the sudden, unexpected death of ties between 400 Minnesotans and Minnesota politicians and the Chinese government” before the tragic murder that took place on June 14 outside of Minneapolis.
In his latest bizarre communication with the media from prison, Belter continued to weave a wild narrative that purportedly chronicles the deadly shooting incident that resulted in the deaths of state Rep. Melissa Hortman (DFL-Brooklyn Park), her husband Mark, and State Senator Yvette.
Belter, now facing six federal charges including murder and firearm violations, could potentially face the death penalty if convicted. He is set to be arraigned in Minneapolis on September 12, and his court-appointed attorney has indicated that he will plead not guilty.
In a message sent from Sherburne County Jail, Belter presented himself through a third party. He claimed, “Before June 14, Dr. Vance Belter Ed, unbeknownst to his wife, family, friends, and colleagues, had been conducting a two-year undercover investigation into the sudden, unexpected deaths of 400 Minnesotans and the relationship between Minnesota politicians and the Chinese government. The evidence is coming together.”
He provided no specifics about the alleged deaths, but his comments on politicians and China might allude to Minnesota Governor Tim Walz, who has frequently traveled to China since his early years in Nebraska.
In previous statements, Belter asserted that the shooting incident was not driven by his pro-life beliefs or his support for former President Donald Trump. He discussed his purported investigation in emails sent via a prison messaging system.
The New York Times remarked on Belter’s “mysterious message,” characterizing it as that of a man who appears to be deeply delusional.
Two statements reportedly seized by law enforcement included phrases like, “If you want to save the country, you need to get your hands dirty,” suggesting a grim mindset. In a letter allegedly written by Belter, he claimed that Walz was instructed to kill both U.S. senators in Minnesota. Walz has yet to address this conspiracy theory mentioned in the scattered letter that was directed to FBI Director Kash Patel.
Belter’s addition to the defense team might hint that the U.S. Department of Justice is considering seeking the death penalty. The charges include a “notification of special investigation results,” which is a procedural step toward that possibility.
Kimberly Sharkey, a federal public defender in Nevada, is now involved in Belter’s case, specializing in capital defense. She has joined to assist with his representation.
Belter’s attorney, Joseph H. Thompson, noted that the decision regarding whether to pursue the death penalty would not be made for several months, with the ultimate choice resting with Attorney General Pam Bondy, based on input from prosecutors and Belter’s family.
Meanwhile, Hennepin County officials have released heavily edited transcripts of 911 calls made by Hope Hoffman after her parents were shot. The transcripts were made public following a legal push from Minnesota media seeking transparency.
During one call placed at 2:05 a.m., Hoffman stated, “My dad was shot,” and repeated, “Shot. I was shot. My parents were shot!” after the dispatcher had her repeat her address multiple times. This information was crucial as it was relayed to local law enforcement while they were searching for the shooter.
The FBI revealed that Belter disguised himself at the front door of Hoffman’s residence, wearing a “hyper-realistic” silicone mask. Senator Hoffman realized, upon opening the door, that the individual with the flashlight was not an officer at all.
During the confrontation, Senator Hoffman was shot nine times as he attempted to push Belter out the door. Mrs. Hoffman tried to help and was shot eight times. Fortunately, Hope was able to secure the door and lock it in time. Prosecutors allege that Belter intended to kill Hope as well.
John and Yvette Hoffman were eventually released from the hospital following emergency surgeries and a period in intensive care.
