Suspect in Minnesota Shooting Had Weapons and Hit List

Vance Belter, the individual charged with the fatal shooting of a Minnesota senator and the wounding of another lawmaker and his spouse, reportedly had a firearm and a targeted list in his vehicle, as revealed in court documents.

The 57-year-old, who impersonated a police officer, was driving a Ford SUV registered to him, allegedly outfitted with police lights. His intended victims were identified as Minnesota House Speaker Melissa Hortman and her husband, Mark.

According to charges filed in Hennepin County District Court, authorities discovered a concerning array of weapons inside the vehicle, including three AK-47 rifles, a 9mm handgun, and a manifesto that contained the names and addresses of other civil servants.

Law enforcement officials, who spoke on condition of anonymity, stated that the manifesto listed about 70 names, which included abortion rights advocates and medical facilities.

Former House Representative Dean Phillips mentioned in a social media post that his name was included in Belter’s list. He expressed gratitude towards Minnesota law enforcement, saying, “As someone whose name is on his list, I am truly thankful. Now, we must take steps to prevent political violence before it’s too late.”

Belter was apprehended after a two-day manhunt, dubbed the largest in the state’s history, concluding on a Sunday night. Officials did not provide a specific motive during the announcement of his arrest.

Criminal charges have been filed against him, with each count being a felony. The charges carry a maximum potential sentence of 40 years in prison, along with a mandatory minimum of three years due to the use of a firearm.