In a devastating incident that has sent shockwaves through the community, Minnesota state House Democratic Leader Melissa Hortman and her husband, Mark, were tragically shot and killed in their suburban Twin Cities home on Saturday. This tragic event marks one of two targeted attacks against sitting Democratic legislators in the state.
During a press conference on Saturday morning, Governor Tim Walz confirmed the Hortmans' deaths and provided updates on another victim, Senator John Hoffman, and his wife Yvette, who were also shot multiple times in their Champlin residence. Fortunately, both Hoffmans are out of surgery, and authorities are cautiously optimistic about their recovery.
Law enforcement officials have identified a 57-year-old Minnesota man, Vance Luther Boelter, as a suspect in these chilling attacks. The FBI is actively seeking information and has issued a reward of up to $50,000 for any leads that could result in his arrest and conviction. The attacks unfolded in a disturbing manner, with the suspect reportedly dressed as a police officer and driving an SUV that resembled a police squad vehicle.
The sequence of events began at approximately 2 AM when authorities received a call reporting that Senator Hoffman and his wife had been shot. Drew Evans, superintendent of the Minnesota Bureau of Criminal Apprehension, indicated that officers, acting on instinct, decided to check on Hortman's home located just five or six miles away. Upon arrival, they discovered a police vehicle parked outside, and a figure appearing to be an officer was seen exiting the property. Brooklyn Park Police Chief Mark Bruley stated that an exchange of gunfire occurred when officers confronted this individual, who then retreated into the home and managed to escape.
Upon searching the suspect's vehicle, officers discovered a manifesto that identified numerous lawmakers and officials. According to an official who reviewed the list, it included many prominent figures supporting abortion rights in Minnesota, particularly targeting outspoken Democratic lawmakers on this contentious issue. Governor Walz has suggested that the shootings appear to be politically motivated assassinations.
Melissa Hortman, aged 55, had a distinguished career in public service, serving as House speaker from 2019 until earlier this year when she took on the role of House Democrats' caucus leader amid a rare tie in the chamber. She was remembered as a formidable public servant who dedicated her life to improving the state of Minnesota. "She was irreplaceable and will be missed by so many," Governor Walz said, reflecting on her legacy of grace, compassion, and humor.
Senator Hoffman, 60, who chairs the Senate's Human Services committee, represents the northwest Twin Cities suburbs and is also a significant figure in the Minnesota legislature.
The tragic news has prompted reactions from various political leaders. House Speaker Lisa Demuth (R-Cold Spring) expressed her shock and horror over the attack, urging the public to pray for the victims and law enforcement personnel involved in the case. U.S. Representative Angie Craig also voiced her devastation on social media, highlighting the targeted nature of the shootings and the impact on their community.
U.S. Attorney General Pam Bondi has stated that her office is closely monitoring the developments in Minnesota, emphasizing that this horrific violence will not be tolerated and will be prosecuted to the fullest extent of the law. The FBI is on the ground, collaborating with state and local partners to investigate this alarming situation.
This is a developing story, and updates will be provided as more information becomes available.
