Texas Bible College Confirms Minnesota Lawmaker Murder Suspect Was an Alumnus

Christ For The Nations Institute (CFNI), a Bible college located in southern Dallas, confirmed on Monday that Vance Boelter, the individual charged with the murder of Minnesota Rep. Melissa Hortman and her husband, is a graduate of the institution. Boelter was enrolled at the interdenominational Bible college from 1988 to 1990, where he earned a degree in Practical Theology with a focus on Leadership and Pastoral Studies.

“We are deeply shocked and appalled that a CFNI alumnus is the suspect,” CFNI stated. “This does not represent our identity.” This does not align with our teachings. This does not align with our expectations. CFNI firmly stands against and expresses strong disapproval of all manifestations of violence and extremism.

Boelter, 57, was taken into custody Sunday night following what officials in Minnesota described as the most extensive manhunt in the state's history. A man faces two murder charges and two attempted murder charges in connection with the fatal assaults on Rep. Hortman, her spouse Mark, and State Sen. John Hoffman, along with his wife Yvette, who managed to survive the incident.

A criminal complaint reveals that Boelter had in his possession several weapons, such as AK-47 rifles, a 9mm handgun, along with a list containing the names and addresses of public officials. Additionally, he was found to be wearing a ballistic vest, disguises, and a counterfeit police badge. Authorities suspect that Boelter had intentions to focus on a minimum of two additional legislators.

Texas officials are reacting with increased security measures. During a legislative signing event in Denton on Monday, Governor Greg Abbott spoke about the tragic killings in Minnesota, highlighting them as a stark reminder of the growing dangers faced by public officials.

“We must prevent a repeat of the events in Minnesota from occurring in Texas,” Abbott stated. He confirmed that the Department of Public Safety (DPS) is currently on heightened alert due to an unrelated threat over the weekend that necessitated the evacuation of the Texas State Capitol.

In a recent development, Democratic U.S. Representatives Veronica Escobar and Joaquin Castro disclosed that they found themselves on Boelter’s purported hit list. Sen. Royce West of Dallas stated, “In light of the intense emotions in this country… We need to remain vigilant now more than ever.”

Boelter, known for his strongly conservative religious beliefs, also obtained a master's and doctorate in leadership studies from Cardinal Stritch University, a Catholic college in Wisconsin that is no longer in operation.

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