Gov. Walz Issues Statement On Arrest Of Murder Suspect Vance Boelter

Gov. Tim Walz released the following statement Sunday night on the arrest of Vance Boelter following the “assassination” of Minnesota Rep. Melissa Hortman and her husband, Mark, and the “attempted assassination” of Sen. John Hoffman and his wife, Yvette, according to the governor’s office:

“After a two-day manhunt in which hundreds of law enforcement officials left their families to run into danger and deliver justice for Melissa and Mark Hortman, Vance Boelter has been apprehended.

“Boelter’s unthinkable actions ended the life of someone who shaped the core of who we are as a state. Someone who was beloved by colleagues on both sides of the aisle. Someone who sacrificed everything for public service.

“As a country we cannot become numb to this violence. We are a deeply divided nation. That has become even more clear over the last two days. The way we move forward and solve the problems facing our nation is not through hate. It is not through violence. It is through humility, and grace, and civility.

“To Melissa and Mark’s family: I cannot fathom your pain, your grief. Let us take solace in their memory, in Melissa’s legacy of selfless, pragmatic, gentle public service. The state of Minnesota grieves with you.

“To John and Yvette: we’re excited to see you at the Capitol, and the bravery you and your daughter Hope showed saved countless lives and will not be forgotten.

“To our law enforcement officers: thank you for your courage, your service, and your professionalism. You have saved lives.

“As we heal, we will not let fear win. We must now move forward in Melissa’s honor with understanding, service, and above all, a sense of one other’s humanity.”