June 14, 2025 — Minnesota: A targeted shooting has shocked the state of Minnesota and the nation, claiming the life of former House Speaker Melissa Hortman and her husband in what officials are calling a politically motivated attack. The deadly assault occurred early Saturday morning at the couple’s home in Champlin, prompting a statewide manhunt and urgent calls for unity and condemnation of political violence.
According to authorities, the assailant — believed to have been impersonating a law enforcement officer — targeted the residences of State Representative Melissa Hortman and State Senator John Hoffman, both Democrats representing Hennepin County. Hoffman’s wife was also reportedly injured in the attack.
Champlin Mayor Ryan Sabas confirmed that multiple lawmakers and their spouses were shot in the early hours of Saturday, June 14. The suspect remains at large and is considered armed and dangerous. Law enforcement agencies have issued a shelter-in-place alert for areas near the Edinburgh Golf Course in Brooklyn Park as the investigation intensifies.
A Life of Public Service Cut Short
Melissa Hortman, a respected Democratic leader and former Speaker of the Minnesota House of Representatives, was first elected in 2004 and became one of the most influential voices in state politics. She was also a practicing attorney, a devoted wife, and the mother of two children.
In a social media statement, Minnesota Governor Tim Walz confirmed the tragic news and announced the activation of the State Emergency Operations Center, vowing to fully support the investigation. “Melissa dedicated her life to public service. Her loss is heartbreaking, and we will not rest until justice is served,” said Walz.
Community and National Response
The shootings come at a time of heightened political tension in the U.S., with increasing reports of harassment and violence against public officials. The attack has drawn strong reactions from across the political spectrum.
Former Congresswoman Gabrielle Giffords, who survived a politically motivated shooting in 2011, released a powerful statement through her gun violence prevention organization GIFFORDS:
“I am horrified and heartbroken by last night’s attack on two patriotic public servants. An attack against lawmakers is an attack on American democracy itself.”
Local leaders echoed this sentiment. Mounds View Mayor Zach Lindstrom urged residents to reject violence in all forms: “My prayers are with the Hortman and Hoffman families… This is not just an attack on them — it’s an attack on all of us.”
What We Know About the Suspect
The suspect is described as a white male with brown hair, last seen wearing black body armor over a blue shirt and pants, and possibly posing as a police officer. Brooklyn Park police are urging residents to verify the identity of anyone claiming to be law enforcement and call 911 before opening their doors.
Two active crime scenes have been identified — one in Champlin and another in Brooklyn Park, both within close proximity to the lawmakers’ homes.