In a horrifying act of politically motivated violence, Minnesota lawmakers were shot in two separate but coordinated attacks early Saturday morning, leaving Representative Melissa Hortman and her husband dead, and Senator John Hoffman and his wife seriously injured.
Governor Tim Walz confirmed the attacks, labeling them a “political assassination” during an urgent press briefing. Law enforcement has launched a statewide manhunt for the suspect believed to be responsible.
Minnesota Lawmakers Shot in Twin Cities Suburbs
Authorities say Rep. Hortman, 55, and her husband Mark, 58, were fatally shot inside their home in Brooklyn Park around 3:30 a.m. Officers conducting welfare checks encountered a man posing as a law enforcement officer outside their residence. A brief exchange of gunfire occurred before the suspect fled the scene on foot.
Roughly 90 minutes earlier, Sen. Hoffman, 60, and his wife Yvette were attacked at their home in Champlin. Both sustained multiple gunshot wounds. Senator Hoffman underwent emergency surgery and is reportedly in stable condition. His wife’s current condition remains undisclosed.
According to the Hennepin County Medical Examiner, both Hortmans died from multiple gunshot wounds. Rep. Hortman was pronounced dead at the scene, and her husband died shortly after arriving at North Memorial Health Hospital.
Suspect Identified in Minnesota Lawmakers Shot Case
Authorities have identified Vance Luther Boelter, 57, as the prime suspect in the Minnesota lawmakers shot case. Surveillance footage from a Minneapolis business captured Boelter shortly after the attacks. He is considered armed and extremely dangerous.
Boelter is described as a 6-foot-1 white male, approximately 220 pounds, with brown hair and eyes. He was last seen wearing a cowboy hat, dark long-sleeved shirt, and light-colored pants. Authorities believe he may have changed clothing and left the area.
Law enforcement recovered a vehicle styled to resemble a police SUV from the Hortmans’ residence. Inside the vehicle, officers found a list of more than 50 potential political targets, as well as fliers associated with extremist groups. Several scheduled protests in Minnesota have since been canceled as a safety precaution.
A reward of $50,000 is being offered for information leading to Boelter’s capture and conviction. Citizens with tips are urged to contact 911 or the Minnesota BCA tip line at 877-996-6222.
National Response: Political Leaders Condemn Violence
The Minnesota lawmakers shot incident has triggered strong reactions across the political spectrum.
President Donald Trump issued a statement saying, “Such horrific violence will not be tolerated in the United States. I am working closely with the FBI and Attorney General to ensure justice is served.”
Senator Amy Klobuchar expressed heartbreak over the loss of Rep. Hortman, a close friend and colleague, stating: “This was not just a crime; it was an attack on democracy. We must condemn violence and hate in all its forms.”
Governor Walz added, “Today, Minnesota lost a great leader. Melissa Hortman served this state with honor and passion. We will not let fear and violence define our democracy.”
Security Heightened Across Minnesota
Following the Minnesota lawmakers shot incident, law enforcement agencies statewide are on high alert. Government buildings have increased security, and lawmakers have been urged to take extra precautions. Several events involving elected officials have been postponed or canceled.
The FBI, ATF, and U.S. Marshals Service are now assisting Minnesota authorities in the ongoing investigation.
Former U.S. Rep. Gabby Giffords, a survivor of a 2011 political shooting, also released a statement: “My heart breaks for Minnesota. An attack on public servants is an attack on our democracy.”
Remembering Rep. Melissa Hortman
Rep. Melissa Hortman served in the Minnesota House of Representatives since 2005. As a Democrat, she was a staunch advocate for clean energy, reproductive rights, and education reform. She leaves behind two children and a legacy of public service.
Senator John Hoffman, also a Democrat, has served Minnesota Senate District 34 since 2013. He and his wife have one daughter. Family sources report that Yvette Hoffman shielded their daughter during the attack.
