Two Minnesota lawmakers and their spouses were victims of coordinated shootings carried out by a suspect reportedly impersonating a police officer. The attacks, which occurred on Saturday, targeted State Senator John Hoffman at his home in Champlin and State House Speaker Melissa Hortman at her residence in Brooklyn Park.
Authorities reported that the suspect, described as a white male dressed in black body armor, appeared indistinguishable from an actual law enforcement officer. This deceptive appearance allowed him to approach the homes undetected before opening fire on the unsuspecting lawmakers and their spouses.
FOX 9 and other outlets confirmed that both couples were specifically targeted in the attacks. Senator Hoffman and his spouse survived and are recovering after undergoing surgery, while Speaker Hortman and her spouse tragically died from their injuries.
Governor Tim Walz condemned the attacks, referring to them as a “targeted political assassination attempt.” In response, he activated the State Emergency Operations Center to coordinate law enforcement and emergency resources for the manhunt and public safety measures.
The violence has deeply shaken the state’s political community. Governor Walz paid tribute to Speaker Hortman, calling her a dedicated public servant and a compassionate leader. Her loss was felt across party lines and at the national level.
Public Safety Commissioner Bob Jacobson expressed outrage at the suspect’s impersonation of a police officer, emphasizing how it undermined public trust. He stated, “The suspect exploited the trust our uniforms represent,” highlighting the broader threat posed by such deceptive tactics.
The FBI has joined the ongoing investigation, and authorities are continuing their search for the suspect, who exchanged gunfire with officers before fleeing. Law enforcement agencies have warned the public not to approach the individual, as he remains armed and dangerous.
U.S. Senator Amy Klobuchar described the shootings as a “stunning act of violence” and offered condolences to both families. The attacks have reignited national concerns over the rise of political violence and the disturbing trend of criminals using law enforcement imagery to commit violent acts.
