Two Democratic lawmakers and spouses shot in their homes as police issue shelter-in-place alert
Minnesota is reeling from a devastating tragedy after two well-known state lawmakers and their spouses were shot in their own homes. Representative Melissa Hortman and her husband did not survive the attack. Senator John Hoffman and his wife were also injured in a similar incident but are now recovering after undergoing surgery. The news has shaken the community and raised serious concerns about the safety of public officials.
Melissa Hortman had a long and respected career in Minnesota politics. She first entered the state legislature in 2004 and worked her way up to become Speaker of the House, one of the most powerful roles in the state government. Known for her intelligence, compassion, and dedication to public service, she was admired by colleagues across party lines. Governor Tim Walz spoke with emotion about her character, saying she brought grace, humor, and strength to her role. Her sudden and violent death has left a painful void in the lives of her colleagues and constituents.
John Hoffman, a state senator since 2012, has also served his community for years. In addition to his work in the Senate, he leads a consulting firm and was previously involved in the Anoka-Hennepin School Board, which oversees the largest school district in Minnesota. He and his wife were shot multiple times during the attack, but doctors say they are optimistic about their recovery. The senator’s survival brings a small sense of relief, but the horror of the events remains overwhelming.
The shootings occurred in the northern suburbs of Minneapolis, areas represented by both Horton and Hoffman. Champlin Mayor Ryan Sabas confirmed that both politicians and their spouses were targeted. Law enforcement officials are working around the clock to understand who committed these acts and why. So far, they believe the suspect may have posed as a police officer to gain access to the homes. Investigators are still in the early stages and have not yet determined a clear motive, though there is growing concern that the attacks may have been politically driven.
Governor Walz has referred to the violence as politically motivated, a chilling suggestion that public servants may have been attacked simply because of the work they do. In response to the situation, state lawmakers have been told to increase their personal security and to remain on high alert. The fact that the shooter is still on the loose has only added to the fear and tension across Minnesota.
Police are searching for a man described as white with brown hair, wearing a blue shirt and pants, along with a tactical vest. The Brooklyn Park Police Department has issued a shelter-in-place order for anyone within a three-mile radius of the Edinburgh Golf Course, where the suspect may have last been seen. Authorities have warned people to be very careful. If someone shows up at your door claiming to be law enforcement, they should always be in pairs. If you see a single officer, you are advised to call 911 immediately to confirm that it’s a legitimate visit.
This series of attacks has deeply unsettled Minnesota, a state not often associated with such violence against elected officials. The deaths of Representative Hortman and her husband are being mourned across the state, and prayers and support continue to pour in for Senator Hoffman and his wife as they recover. The community is in shock, and the political world is grappling with a heartbreaking reminder of how vulnerable even the most dedicated public servants can be. The search for answers, and for justice, continues.
