A Minnesota state lawmaker and her husband were shot dead in their home near Minneapolis early Saturday, while another state senator and his wife were wounded in a separate attack. Officials believe both incidents were politically motivated, with the gunman still on the run.
Melissa Hortman, a former Speaker of the Minnesota House, and her husband Mark were found dead after a reported shooting at their residence. Earlier that same morning, State Senator John Hoffman and his wife, Yvette, were also shot and are currently being treated for their injuries. Authorities say they are hopeful the couple will recover.
Governor Tim Walz, emotional at a press briefing, confirmed the details and described the attacks as deliberate acts of political violence. According to police, the suspect targeted both homes within 90 minutes, escaping during a gunfight with officers near the Hortmans’ residence.
Investigators revealed the shooter posed as a police officer to gain access. Flyers linked to an anti-Trump rally and a manifesto listing the names of politicians were found in the suspect’s abandoned vehicle. The rally was canceled following a shelter-in-place order issued across Minneapolis.
Local police are searching for a white male with brown hair, last seen wearing black body armor over a blue shirt and blue pants. Officers have secured the suspect’s car but believe he remains on foot.
Lawmakers and public figures have condemned the violence. U.S. Senator Amy Klobuchar paid tribute to Hortman as a passionate advocate for women’s rights and clean energy. Fellow senator Tina Smith and gun control advocate Gabby Giffords also voiced strong reactions, calling the attack an assault on democracy.
Officials emphasized the importance of peaceful political discourse and urged citizens to reject violence as a means of settling differences. The manhunt continues, and authorities are asking the public to report any information that may help locate the suspect.
