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Minnesota Lawmaker and Husband Killed in Targeted Shooting
In a chilling act of political violence, former Minnesota House Speaker Melissa Hortman and her husband were shot dead early Saturday morning at their home in Brooklyn Park. In a separate but seemingly coordinated attack, State Senator John Hoffman and his wife were critically wounded at their residence in Champlin, just five miles away. Authorities have confirmed that both incidents are linked and were carried out by the same suspect.
The attacks have left the state in shock and prompted an unprecedented manhunt involving local, state, and federal agencies.
Gunman Impersonated Law Enforcement
The suspect, who remains at large, was reportedly dressed in a police-style uniform complete with body armor, a badge, and vehicle-mounted sirens. This allowed him to approach both homes without suspicion. After firing at responding officers at the Hortman residence, he abandoned his vehicle and fled on foot.
Investigators later found a manifesto in the suspect’s car, naming additional lawmakers as potential targets. The vehicle also contained leaflets referencing a group known as the “No Kings” movement, which has recently gained traction for its anti-establishment rhetoric.
Leaders Condemn Attack
Minnesota Governor Tim Walz condemned the events as “an unspeakable tragedy” and labeled the shootings a targeted political assassination. He emphasized the need to protect public servants and called for unity in rejecting political violence.
Prominent national leaders, including President Donald Trump, called the shootings “horrific” and vowed that such acts would not be tolerated. Senator Amy Klobuchar, who had worked closely with Hortman, mourned her colleague and stated, “This was an attack on everything we stand for as a democracy.”
High Alert Across the State
Authorities have issued a public safety alert urging residents to verify the identity of any approaching law enforcement officers. Residents are advised to only open their doors to two uniformed officers arriving together due to the suspect’s impersonation tactics. Statewide protests linked to the “No Kings” movement were also called off due to safety concerns.
A multi-agency task force, including SWAT, FBI, and Minnesota Bureau of Criminal Apprehension, continues the search for the gunman.
Victims and Legacy
Melissa Hortman, 55, was a long-serving Democratic lawmaker known for championing women’s rights, clean energy, and education reforms. She served as Speaker of the Minnesota House from 2019 to 2024. Her husband, Mark, was a respected local attorney.
Senator John Hoffman, 60, currently chairs the Human Services Committee. He and his wife remain hospitalized but are in stable condition following emergency surgery.
This attack has left the state and nation reeling. With multiple elected officials targeted and fears of further violence, the incident has cast a long shadow over Minnesota’s political landscape and ignited new debate over the safety of public servants in America.
