Suspect captured after 40-hour nanhunt in Minnesota political killings

(NBC)- After more than 40 hours on the run, authorities have captured Vance Boelter—ending what’s being called the largest manhunt in Minnesota’s history. Boelter is accused of murdering State Representative Melissa Hortman and her husband Mark, and severely injuring State Senator John Hoffman and his wife Yvette in a separate attack. Bullet holes from that shooting remain visible in the Hoffmans’ front door.

The breakthrough came Sunday afternoon when officers located an abandoned vehicle linked to Boelter in a rural area about 50 miles southwest of Minneapolis—just minutes from his home. A tip from a resident led tactical teams to his location.

“The suspect crawled to law enforcement teams and was placed under arrest… there was no use of force,” said Lt. Col. Jeremy Geiger of the Minnesota State Patrol. Authorities say Boelter was armed at the time.

A criminal complaint, unsealed following his arrest, reveals officers recovered three AK-47-style rifles, a 9mm pistol, and a disturbing “kill list” from the vehicle. A ballistic vest, mask, and police-style badge were also found nearby.

“This is still an open and active investigation,” said Brooklyn Park Police Chief Mark Bruley. “Now begins the hard work of understanding the motive and building the case.”