Minnesota Lawmaker Killed in Targeted Attack
What Happened?
Minnesota Democratic House leader Melissa Hortman and her husband, Mark, were fatally shot at their Brooklyn Park home.
State Senator John Hoffman and his wife, Yvette, were also shot in Champlin. The attacker, posing as a police officer, targeted both lawmakers. Authorities called it a “politically motivated assassination.”
When Did It Happen?
The shootings occurred early Saturday morning, June 14, 2025. Governor Tim Walz announced the deaths at a 9:45 a.m. press conference. A manhunt for the suspect began immediately. The shelter-in-place order in Brooklyn Park was lifted later that day.
Who Was Melissa Hortman?
Melissa Hortman, 55, was a top Democratic leader in the Minnesota House. She served as House Speaker from 2019 to 2025. An attorney and mother of two, she represented Brooklyn Park’s District 34B since 2004. Hortman championed free school meals and abortion rights.
Who Is the Suspect?
Police are searching for Vance Luther Boelter, a 57-year-old Minnesota man. Boelter allegedly impersonated a police officer, using a fake police car and badge.
A list of about 70 potential targets, including pro-choice lawmakers, was found in his vehicle. He remains at large.
Why Was It Politically Motivated?
Governor Walz described the attacks as politically driven. A law enforcement official reported Boelter’s hit list targeted prominent abortion rights advocates.
The exact motive is still under investigation. Political leaders condemned the violence as an attack on democracy.
What’s the Latest Development?
Hundreds of law enforcement officers, including ATF and U.S. Marshals, are involved in the manhunt. Authorities urged Minnesotans to avoid political rallies until Boelter is caught.
Hoffman and his wife are recovering, with officials cautiously optimistic. Political violence concerns continue to rise nationwide.
Background Context
On June 14, 2025, Minnesota was rocked by a violent attack on two Democratic lawmakers. Melissa Hortman, a respected figure in state politics, and her husband were killed in their home. In a separate but related incident, Senator John Hoffman and his wife were wounded.
The suspect, Vance Boelter, allegedly posed as a police officer to gain access to the victims. This shocking event has drawn widespread condemnation from leaders across the political spectrum, including President Donald Trump and former President Joe Biden.
Hortman
Hortman was a key figure in Minnesota’s Democratic-Farmer-Labor (DFL) Party. She led efforts to pass progressive legislation, including universal free school meals and protections for reproductive rights. Her death leaves a void in the state’s political scene, where Democrats hold a slim Senate majority. The attack on Hoffman, a long-serving senator, further heightened fears of political violence.
Boelter, the suspect
Boelter, the suspect, had some prior connection to Hoffman through a state workforce development board. Police found a manifesto-like list in his fake police car, naming numerous lawmakers, particularly those vocal on pro-choice issues.
This suggests a targeted campaign against Democrats, though authorities have not confirmed a definitive motive. The investigation remains fluid, with officials promising more details as evidence emerges.
shootings
The shootings come amid a national rise in politically motivated violence.
Recent incidents include assassination attempts on President Trump in 2024 and an arson attack on Pennsylvania Governor Josh Shapiro’s home.
Minnesota’s congressional delegation, including Senators Amy Klobuchar and Tina Smith, issued a joint statement mourning Hortman and condemning the attacks. Local and federal officials are now providing extra security to Minnesota lawmakers.
As the manhunt continues, Minnesota remains on edge. Governor Walz, a close friend of Hortman, emphasized the need to stand against political violence.
The tragedy has sparked renewed calls for unity and restraint in a polarized political climate. Authorities are working tirelessly to apprehend Boelter, while the state grieves the loss of a dedicated public servant.
