In the early morning hours of June 14, 2025, Democratic Representative Melissa Hortman and her husband were shot and killed in their home in Brooklyn Park, Minnesota. A few hours later, Senator John Hoffman and his wife were also seriously injured by multiple gunshots in their home in Champlin. In both cases, authorities report indications of a targeted attack. The suspected perpetrator remains at large.
Police believe the perpetrator disguised himself as a police officer and used a convincingly modified police vehicle. Inside the vehicle, a so-called manifesto was found that listed not only the names of Hortman and Hoffman but also other political officials. The contents suggest a political motive. Two individuals familiar with the investigation identified the man being sought as 57-year-old Vance Boelter. Investigators have not yet publicly confirmed this. According to Police Chief Mark Bruley, the perpetrator was wearing a uniform, carried a weapon, and exited the Hortmans' house through a back door after exchanging gunfire with police. The suspect used a vehicle that closely resembled a real police car in both appearance and equipment, including flashing lights and official markings. Police confirmed that the attacker specifically targeted politicians. The current body of evidence clearly points to a politically motivated background.
Democratic Governor Tim Walz referred to the incident as an act of political violence. In a press conference, he stated that all forms of politically motivated attacks must be condemned unequivocally. Authorities immediately initiated measures to protect other potential targets after discovering the manifesto. The state of Minnesota will mobilize all resources to bring the perpetrator to justice.
Democratic Representative Melissa Hortman was, until recently, Speaker of the House and one of the most influential politicians in the state. First elected in 2004, she was considered a voice of reason across party lines in an increasingly polarized political climate. Together with her husband, she had two children. Senator John Hoffman has served in the Minnesota Senate since 2012. He previously served on the Anoka Hennepin School Board, the largest school district in the state. His wife was also injured in the attack. Both underwent emergency surgery and are reportedly in stable condition, according to official statements.
Drew Evans from the Bureau of Criminal Apprehension confirmed that the recovered vehicle was a fabricated replica. In addition to the manifesto, it also contained flyers referencing the "No Kings" movement. That group had announced statewide protests for the same day. Although there were no concrete indications of an attack planned for the demonstrations, they were all preemptively canceled.
Public Safety Commissioner Bob Jacobson expressed concern over the misuse of police symbolism. The attacker deliberately exploited public trust in uniforms, which weighs heavily on all members of law enforcement. US President Donald Trump stated that the FBI was involved in the investigation. Attorney General Pam Bondi would coordinate the legal proceedings. Minnesota House Speaker Lisa Demuth, a Republican, called the attack a “malicious act.” She expressed deep sorrow over the death of her colleague and called on the public to pray for the victims and the security forces.
The investigation is ongoing. An autopsy report confirmed that Melissa Hortman and her husband died as a result of gunshot wounds. Authorities have issued an urgent nationwide search and a public tip portal remains active. A shelter-in-place order was enacted in several neighborhoods on Saturday morning, and residents are urged to remain vigilant. Anyone with information on the whereabouts of Vance Boelter is asked to contact the FBI or the Brooklyn Park Police immediately.
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