**Minnesota Politicians Targeted in Deadly Shooting: What We Know So Far**
Authorities in Minnesota are investigating a shocking incident after two prominent political figures were targeted in separate shootings on Saturday, resulting in the deaths of a state politician and her husband. Another state legislator and his spouse sustained serious injuries. The attacks, described by officials as “targeted political violence,” have sent ripples of concern through both state and national governments.
The fatal shooting occurred at the Brooklyn Park residence of Melissa Hortman, a long-serving member of the Minnesota House of Representatives and former House Speaker. Both Ms Hortman and her husband lost their lives after an assailant, reportedly posing as a police officer, entered their home and opened fire. Law enforcement has identified the suspect as Vance Boelter, aged 57, who remains at large as a manhunt intensifies.
Shortly after the first attack, Minnesota State Senator John Hoffman and his wife were shot multiple times at their home in nearby Champlin. Both survived but are recovering from their injuries. Authorities confirmed that both legislators’ names appeared in a manifesto discovered inside a counterfeit police vehicle left at one of the crime scenes. The contents of these writings have not been made public, but officials said they reference several lawmakers and government officials, adding to concerns about broader political motivations.
During a press briefing, Governor Tim Walz condemned the violence and labelled the attacks as deliberate and politically motivated. “This kind of targeted aggression has no place in Minnesota or anywhere in the United States,” said Governor Walz. Security efforts have since been heightened around public figures across the state, with officials placing some lawmakers under protective watch.
Further investigation revealed that the suspect had attempted to blend in with authentic law enforcement officers by donning a uniform and driving an SUV indistinguishable from a police squad car. Mark Bruley, Brooklyn Park’s Chief of Police, stated that the vehicle was equipped with functional emergency lights, intensifying fears about the suspect’s ability to move undetected in the community.
Numerous police agencies were mobilised in the aftermath, with heavily armed officers and sheriff’s deputies performing door-to-door searches and stopping vehicles at roadblocks. Public safety officials issued a “shelter in place” order for affected neighbourhoods whilst efforts to locate Boelter remained underway. Superintendent Drew Evans of the state Bureau of Criminal Apprehension confirmed that post-mortem examinations are planned to confirm the causes of death, with initial findings indicating fatal gunshot injuries.
State patrol leadership urged Minnesotans to avoid public gatherings and cancelled “No Kings” protests across the state, suggesting a link between the attacks and political activism. While direct evidence of further threats is lacking, some relevant flyers were discovered in the search of the suspect’s vehicle, leading to heightened caution.
In response to these tragic events, US President Donald Trump issued a statement offering condolences and confirming federal support in the investigation. “Such horrific violence will not be tolerated. The FBI and the Attorney General’s office will ensure all those responsible are prosecuted to the fullest extent,” he said, appealing for unity and support for Minnesota residents during this tumultuous period.
Political leaders from both sides of the aisle expressed devastation. Republican House Speaker Lisa Demuth called the attack “nothing short of evil” and encouraged Minnesotans to “pray for the victims and the first responders working to resolve this crisis.” The shootings take place against a backdrop of increased threats and incidents directed at public officials nationwide, underscoring ongoing political tensions and divisions.
As investigations continue, the Minnesota community and the wider public remain on edge, with questions swirling about the motivations behind the attacks and concerns about the safety of those who serve in public office. The shocking events underscore the urgent need for solidarity and vigilance in the face of all forms of political intimidation and violence.