MINNEAPOLIS: A large-scale manhunt is underway in suburban Minneapolis after a man, reportedly disguised as a police officer, fatally shot a former Democratic House Speaker and injured another state lawmaker and his wife in separate attacks on Saturday. Authorities have described the killings as politically motivated.
According to officials, Melissa Hortman, 55, the former Speaker of the Minnesota House of Representatives, and her husband Mark were shot and killed in their home in Brooklyn Park. Roughly nine miles away, Senator John Hoffman, 60, and his wife Yvette were found injured with multiple gunshot wounds in their Champlin residence.
Both attacks occurred early in the morning and are believed to be connected. Investigators have identified the suspect as 57-year-old Vance Boelter, according to individuals familiar with the case. They spoke to the Associated Press on condition of anonymity, as the investigation remains ongoing.
Authorities revealed that the suspect left behind flyers with the phrase “No Kings” and had written references to the victims and other political figures, prompting security alerts for elected officials across Minnesota. Planned “No Kings” protests across the state were canceled as a precaution.
The attacks come amid heightened political tensions nationwide, where incidents of violence and intimidation against public officials have become increasingly frequent.
Governor, President Condemn Attacks
Minnesota Governor Tim Walz condemned the shootings as a “politically motivated assassination” and called for unity against acts of political violence.
“We must all, in Minnesota and across the country, stand against all forms of political violence,” Walz said during a press conference. “Those responsible for this will be held accountable.”
U.S. President Donald Trump also issued a strong response, stating:
“I have been briefed on the terrible shooting that took place in Minnesota, which appears to be a targeted attack against state lawmakers. Our Attorney General, Pam Bondi, and the FBI are investigating the situation and will prosecute anyone involved to the fullest extent of the law. Such horrific violence will not be tolerated in the United States.”
Sequence of Events
Champlin police responded to gunfire at the Hoffmans’ residence shortly after 2 a.m., finding both victims wounded. Given their political status, authorities dispatched officers to check on Hortman’s home, where they encountered a man posing as law enforcement outside the property.
“When officers confronted the individual, he immediately opened fire,” said Brooklyn Park Police Chief Mark Bruley. “Officers returned fire, but the suspect managed to retreat into the home and escape.”
Several AK-style firearms were later recovered from the suspect’s vehicle, and authorities believe he remains armed with a pistol.
An emergency alert was sent to residents warning them to shelter in place, describing the suspect as a white male with brown hair, wearing black body armor over a blue shirt and pants, and possibly impersonating a police officer.
Roadblocks were set up in the area, and heavily armed law enforcement teams have been deployed as the search intensifies.
Community Reacts to Tragedy
The deaths of Hortman and her husband have left Minnesota’s political community in shock. Hortman, who served as the House’s top Democratic leader from 2017, was known for her strong stance on legislative issues and recently held the honorary title of Speaker Emerita after stepping back from active leadership.
> “She was a towering figure in our legislature—dedicated, brilliant, and tireless,” said Governor Walz. “Her loss is immeasurable.”
Senator Hoffman, a key figure in human services policy, remains hospitalized. He has served in the state legislature since 2012.
Minnesota House Speaker Lisa Demuth, a Republican, called the attack “pure evil” and urged the public to pray for the victims and support law enforcement.
“I am heartbroken beyond words by the tragic loss of Melissa and her husband Mark,” she said in a statement. “Please lift up in prayer all those affected and those still working to bring the perpetrator to justice.”
Local residents have expressed shock and concern but remain hopeful.
“This is insane—someone targeting our representatives like this,” said Douglas Thompson, a 62-year-old Brooklyn Park resident. “I trust they’ll catch him.”
Security on High Alert
Though no direct threats were made against the scheduled “No Kings” protests, authorities advised the public to stay away from such gatherings. All events planned across Minnesota were called off by organizers out of caution.
Law enforcement agencies continue their extensive search for the suspect as the community reels from what is being described as one of the most politically charged acts of violence in the state’s recent history.
