Minnesota Lawmaker Melissa Hortman Killed in Politically Motivated Attack; Suspect at Large
The state of Minnesota is reeling after the fatal shooting of Democratic lawmaker Melissa Hortman and her husband in what officials are calling a “targeted political assassination.” The tragic event occurred early Saturday morning at their Brooklyn Park residence.
Another state lawmaker, Sen. John Hoffman, and his wife were critically injured in a related attack in nearby Champlin. Both are reported to be recovering after undergoing surgery.
Authorities have identified 57-year-old Vance Luther Boelter as the primary suspect in the shootings. Boelter, who allegedly impersonated a police officer during the attacks, has evaded capture despite a growing manhunt that now spans into neighboring states.
“This man will kill in a second,” warned U.S. Senator Amy Klobuchar, urging vigilance as law enforcement continues the search.
An emergency alert has been issued in Sibley County, southwest of Minneapolis, after Boelter’s vehicle was located in Faxon Township. Residents were warned to lock their doors and secure their vehicles as authorities comb the area.
FBI Joins Search; $50,000 Reward Offered
The FBI has now joined the investigation and is offering a $50,000 reward for information leading to Boelter’s arrest. Meanwhile, the Minnesota Bureau of Criminal Apprehension (BCA) confirmed the suspect’s wife, Jenny Boelter, has been detained along with several relatives as part of the probe.
“Melissa was the best of us,” said Minnesota Secretary of State Steve Simon. “Her assassination is not just a personal loss but a loss to our democracy.”
Memorial and Community Reaction
A growing memorial honoring Rep. Hortman has been set up at the Minnesota State Capitol in St. Paul. Friends and neighbors described her as a kind and community-oriented leader.
“What a big loss for Minnesota,” said a neighbor in Brooklyn Park. “This neighborhood is still in shock.”
Suspect May Have Had a Hit List
Law enforcement reportedly found a target list in Boelter’s car, including names of prominent Democratic politicians and abortion rights advocates. U.S. Senator Tina Smith has confirmed her name was on that list. Sen. Klobuchar noted she has also increased her personal security.
Trump Reacts, Slams Governor
Former President Donald Trump condemned the violence but used the occasion to criticize Governor Tim Walz, calling him “grossly incompetent.” Walz, who was Kamala Harris’ running mate in 2024, has labeled the incident an “act of targeted political violence.”
Caption Suggestions for Social Media or Website Use:
- Image 1: A memorial for Rep. Melissa Hortman stands outside the Minnesota State Capitol following her tragic assassination.
- Image 2: Damage outside the Brooklyn Park home where Rep. Hortman and her husband were fatally shot.
- Image 3: FBI offers $50,000 reward for information on fugitive suspect Vance Luther Boelter.
- Image 4: Police stand guard in front of the crime scene in a normally quiet suburban neighborhood.
