Minnesota in Mourning: Lawmakers React to Brazen Shootings of State Leaders

Minnesota was rocked by horror and heartbreak this weekend as two state lawmakers and their spouses were targeted in what Governor Tim Walz has called a “politically motivated assassination.” The shootings claimed the lives of Speaker Emerita Melissa Hortman and her husband Mark, while Senator John Hoffman and his wife Yvette remain hospitalized after being shot multiple times.

The assailant, identified by authorities as 57-year-old Vance Boelter, remains at large. The FBI is offering a $50,000 reward for information leading to his arrest and conviction. Boelter, who once held appointments to the Governor’s Workforce Development Council under both Governor Mark Dayton and Governor Tim Walz, is considered armed and dangerous. Law enforcement confirmed he impersonated a police officer, arriving in what appeared to be a squad car and wearing an armored vest.

The shootings occurred just hours apart—first at Senator Hoffman’s home in Champlin around 2 a.m., and later at the Hortman residence in Brooklyn Park, where responding officers exchanged gunfire with the suspect, who then fled. According to ABC5 KSTP, both attacks were targeted, and all other state lawmakers are now under protective watch.

As Minnesotans process the devastating events, members of the Minnesota Senate, regardless of party, have spoken out in unity and grief.

Senator Keri Heintzeman (R-Nisswa) issued a strong condemnation of the violence, calling it “evil” and expressing deep gratitude to law enforcement. “There is no place for violence in our state. What happened today was evil, and Josh and I condemn it in the strongest possible terms,” she said. “We’re grateful to law enforcement and Capitol security for their ongoing work in this active situation, and we’ll continue to keep all those affected in our prayers as we wait for more information.”

Senator Carla Nelson also shared an emotional statement, saying, “Like so many of you, I’m heartbroken by the attacks on Senator Hoffman and Speaker Emerita Hortman early this morning. It is an unimaginable tragedy.” She praised both victims as kind, thoughtful, and dedicated public servants, adding, “Please keep the family of Speaker Emerita Hortman in your prayers, and please continue to pray for Senator Hoffman and his wife Yvette’s recovery.”

Senator John Jasinski (R-Faribault) called the violence “unspeakable,” and emphasized the importance of law enforcement’s swift response. “In my years in the Senate, I have known them both to be great colleagues, dedicated public servants, and wonderful people,” he said. “This is unspeakable violence that has no place in our society, and I hope the individual or individuals who did this are swiftly brought to justice.”

Senator Warren Limmer (R-Maple Grove) highlighted concerns about the rising level of political tension. “Political rhetoric has risen to a dangerous level and there is no cause that justifies this kind of assault,” he stated. “My prayers are with the Hortman family as they mourn this tragic loss. I’m praying too for the Hoffman family as they both recover.”

Senate Republican Leader Mark Johnson (R-East Grand Forks) reflected the widespread grief and alarm felt across the state: “My heart is broken over the events that unfolded overnight and the loss of life, security, and peace that we are all feeling right now. Senate Republicans are unified in our condemnation of this brazen act of violence.”

Speaker Emerita Hortman, who served in the Minnesota House since 2004 and as Speaker from 2019 until earlier this year, was remembered by Governor Walz as “a formidable public servant…who woke up every day determined to make this state a better place.”

According to ABC5 KSTP, the gunman approached both homes under the guise of law enforcement and opened fire, killing the Hortmans and seriously wounding the Hoffmans. The suspect’s impersonation of a police officer has added an alarming dimension to the case, with public safety officials urging anyone with knowledge of Boelter’s whereabouts to contact federal authorities immediately.

The FBI’s tip line is 1-800-225-5324. Tips can also be submitted online through the FBI’s website. The Minnesota Department of Public Safety has urged residents not to engage with the suspect if seen and to remain vigilant.

For now, Minnesota grieves—and prays for healing, justice, and peace as the investigation continues.