Charges Filed Against Former Preacher in Shooting Case

A former preacher linked to a Christian organization has been charged in federal court stemming from a tragic incident in Minnesota. Vancelu Belter, 57, faces accusations related to the assassination of a prominent state representative and the wounding of a senator and his wife.

Belter, who resided in Green Isle, Minnesota, studied practical theology at the National Institute in Dallas, receiving his degree in 1990. The Institute promotes itself as a “spiritual Bible school,” aiming to aid individuals in growing their faith and developing their ministry skills.

“He would probably have been killed or taken prisoner.”

In a press release issued shortly after Belter’s alleged violent actions on June 14, the National Institute distanced itself from him. The organization emphasized its dismay over the situation, posting a prominent statement on its homepage.

“We are deeply horrified and terrified that a CFNI graduate is implicated as a suspect,” the institute expressed. “This is not representative of our values or teachings. We have dedicated over 55 years to training leaders who embody goodness.”

Alumni Under Fire

While the Institute intends to shape future leaders for spiritual challenges, it has categorically condemned Belter’s violent actions.

The Institute’s statement further clarified, “We unequivocally reject and condemn any form of violence or extremism, regardless of its basis—be it political, racial, or religious. Our mission is to instill compassion, love, and respect for human life among our students.” They firmly stated that the essence of their teachings starkly contrasts with Belter’s alleged malevolent actions.

In St. Paul’s U.S. District Court, Belter was charged with two counts of murder, two counts of stalking, and two firearm-related charges. He is accused of killing former Minnesota House Speaker Melissa Hortman and her husband, Mark, and is linked to further violent acts, including firing upon Senator John Hoffman and his wife, who fortunately survived.

Currently, Belter is being held without bail and is scheduled for his next court appearance on June 27.

According to the FBI, Belter allegedly broke into the Hortman residence in Brooklyn Park early in the morning hours, following an altercation with law enforcement. Reports indicate he shot both Hortmans and inflicted serious injuries to their pet dog, Gilbert.

Prior to that incident, it’s reported that he had attacked Senator Hoffman as Hoffman opened the door at his home in Champlin, Minnesota. In an act of courage, Mrs. Hoffman put herself in the line of fire to protect her daughter.

Afterward, Belter attempted to confront another state senator, Christine Berner, but the senator’s family was not home. Berner expressed her distress, stating, “The recent waves of violence have affected my family deeply, bringing fear right to our doorstep.” She pondered, “What drives someone to such hatred?” They were fortunate to avoid this ordeal through a last-minute change of plans.

Before proceeding toward the Hortman residence, Belter had reportedly been spotted near Senator Ann Rest’s home, where he waited in a faux police vehicle until he was met by actual law enforcement. He allegedly fled the area before heading to attack the Hortmans.

Belter, during a manhunt that spanned nearly 40 hours—one of the largest in Minnesota’s history—eluded the authorities until he was captured on June 15, close to his home.

Christian Outreach

IRS records indicate that Belter founded a non-profit, Revoformation Ministries Inc., in 2007, which has reportedly seen limited donations over the years. The organization initially aimed to promote Belter’s book from 2006, titled “Original Ability.” However, the book has not surfaced on major publication platforms and seems to be largely unrecognized.

Belter claimed to have undertaken missionary work abroad, venturing into conflict zones to share his beliefs. His website described early travels to risky areas before 9/11, explicitly seeking dialogue with extremists, stating that “violence is not the answer.”

Commenting on his experiences, Robert Spencer from Jihad Watch suggested Belter’s survival amid these risks was due to perhaps a lenient reaction from those he engaged with. Spencer cautioned against the dangers faced when trying to convert others to different beliefs in such regions.

Belter reportedly also delivered talks at various gatherings, such as a church in the Democratic Republic of Congo, where videos of him enthusiastically speaking are available on platforms like YouTube. In one appearance, he recalled being filled with exuberance and wanting to express his faith openly through dance.

The church leadership recently issued a statement distancing themselves from Belter, expressing sorrow over the allegations that, as they noted, tarnish the integrity of their teachings and the greater Christian mission.

In closing, the Global Impact Center, where Belter occasionally appeared, made it clear that they hold no formal ties with him, stressing how deeply saddened they are about the gravity of the recent accusations against him.