Minnesota Murder Suspect Had ‘Bailout Plan’ And Prepping History, FBI Affidavit Reveals

 

The man accused of killing a Minnesota state lawmaker and her husband last week was a “prepper” who had previously shared a detailed escape plan with his wife in case of emergency, according to newly unsealed court documents.

The suspect, 57-year-old Shannon Boelter, is facing multiple federal and state charges in connection to the targeted killings. An FBI affidavit reveals Boelter and his wife maintained a “bailout plan” — a common strategy among survivalist communities — instructing her to flee to her mother’s home in Wisconsin in the event of “exigent circumstances.”

No Charges Against Wife

There is no indication Boelter’s wife was aware of his alleged plans to commit violence. She has not been charged with any crime.

After the shootings, Boelter’s wife was stopped by law enforcement while traveling with their four children to visit friends outside the Minneapolis metro area. During a voluntary search of her vehicle, investigators discovered two handguns, U.S. passports for herself and the children, and approximately $10,000 in cash.

In an interview, she disclosed receiving a cryptic group text from Boelter sent to a thread including their children. One message read, “Dad went to war last night … I don’t wanna say more because I don’t wanna implicate anybody,” according to the unsealed federal complaint.

Financial Withdrawal and Last Movements

On the morning of the killings, Boelter reportedly visited a bank in Robbinsdale, Minnesota, and withdrew the full balance of his account — $2,200. He was driven by someone identified in court documents only as “Witness 1,” who had also previously sold him an electric bicycle and a Buick sedan. That sedan was later recovered during the 43-hour manhunt following the shootings.

Authorities continue to investigate whether Boelter acted entirely alone but stated they are exploring all leads to confirm that.

Targeted Officials and Possible Motives

Boelter’s home and car contained extensive written materials, but no single manifesto outlining his motives, according to Acting U.S. Attorney Joseph Thompson. However, authorities uncovered notebooks listing over 45 state and federal officials — primarily Democrats — many with known connections to Planned Parenthood and abortion rights advocacy.

Federal prosecutors say these materials point to a potential ideological motive, although no definitive conclusion has been drawn publicly.

Criminal Charges and Upcoming Court Date

Boelter appeared in federal court on Monday and currently faces six federal charges, including murder, stalking, and firearms violations. He has not yet entered a plea.

A preliminary detention hearing is scheduled for Friday in St. Paul, Minnesota.

The investigation is ongoing, and authorities are continuing to interview witnesses and examine digital and physical evidence to determine the full scope of Boelter’s actions and affiliations.