In a deeply unsettling development, Minnesota State Representative Melissa Hortman and her husband were shot dead in what officials have described as a “targeted act of political violence.” The attack occurred at their residence and was confirmed by Governor Tim Walz, who said the incident was deliberate and politically motivated.
“This was not random,” said Governor Walz. “It was a targeted act of political violence that has shaken the foundation of our community.”
In a related incident, State Senator John Hoffman and his wife were shot multiple times in their home. Both underwent emergency surgery. Governor Walz stated that he is “cautiously optimistic” about their recovery and reiterated the grave nature of the coordinated assault.
“This was nothing short of an assassination attempt,” Walz said. “We are treating it as such, and those responsible will be held accountable.”
A massive multi-agency investigation is now underway involving state and federal law enforcement, including the FBI. Authorities confirmed that the attacks appear coordinated and well-planned.
State Police Chief Mark Bruley revealed chilling details about the operation. Officers responding to the Hoffman residence later conducted a welfare check at Hortman’s home. There, they encountered a man wearing a vest, badge, and taser, who arrived in what looked like an official SUV patrol vehicle.
Bruley said the suspect, who impersonated a police officer, opened fire when approached and then barricaded himself inside the house.
“No doubt if they were in this room, you would assume they were a police officer,” Bruley added.
As of now, a massive manhunt is in progress, involving SWAT teams and hundreds of officers. The city of Brooklyn Park remains under a shelter-in-place advisory, affecting thousands of residents. Authorities have detained multiple individuals for questioning, though no formal arrests have yet been made.
President Donald Trump, in a statement delivered by White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt, addressed the nation, confirming that Attorney General Pam Bondi and the FBI are leading the federal investigation.
“Such horrific violence will not be tolerated in the United States of America,” President Trump said. “God bless the great people of Minnesota; it is a truly great place.”
He vowed that those responsible “will be prosecuted to the fullest extent of the law.”
The twin shootings have shocked the nation, raising urgent concerns about political safety and domestic extremism in America.