Reward For Lyle Hoffman's Arrest, Conviction Increased To $25K

MINNEAPOLIS (WCCO) -- Authorities announced the reward has more than doubled for information leading to the arrest and conviction of Lyle Marvin "Ty" Hoffman, who is wanted in connection with the Aug. 11 murder of Kelly Phillips in Arden Hills.

On Tuesday, the Ramsey County Sheriff's Office issued Hoffman's revised wanted poster, which reflects the increased reward of $25,000 raised by the community and offered by Crime Stoppers.

The sheriff's office is now encouraging the public to share the wanted poster widely. Hoffman may have fled the state and could be anywhere in the country.

Hoffman has traveled the United States, Canada and Mexico extensively. He also mentioned visiting Belize. He is known to gamble frequently -- in Las Vegas and local casinos -- and enjoys blackjack. He's known to gravitate toward the gay communities in the places he visits, authorities said.

Authorities also believe Hoffman is using social media to find shelter while on the run.

Phillips, who was the vice president and general counsel for Boston Scientific, was shot three times at a gas station in Arden Hills and died from injuries in the incident. A public memorial is set for Phillips at the St. Mark's Episcopal Cathedral in Minneapolis at 7 p.m. Thursday.

The handgun has not been recovered in the incident, so authorities say Hoffman should be considered armed and dangerous.

To share any information or report a tip anonymously, the public is encouraged to call Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-8477.