Early Saturday morning, two Minnesota state lawmakers were victims of a chilling and politically motivated shooting spree, leaving one dead and the other critically injured.
State Representative Melissa Hortman and her husband, Mark Hortman, were fatally shot at their home in Brooklyn Park, Governor Tim Walz confirmed in a press briefing. The attack has been officially described as “targeted political violence.”
Meanwhile, State Senator John Hoffman and his wife, Yvette, were shot multiple times at their residence in Champlin but survived. Both are currently recovering after emergency surgery.
Details of the Attack
According to law enforcement, the suspect approached the Hortman home impersonating a police officer. The assailant arrived in an SUV resembling a squad car, wore body armor, a convincing badge, and was equipped with a taser. Police exchanged gunfire with the suspect at the scene, but he managed to flee on foot.
Authorities have detained and questioned several individuals but have yet to make any arrests. An ongoing investigation is underway, with thousands in Brooklyn Park advised to shelter in place.
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Governor Walz activated the State Emergency Operations Center and condemned the attack as a severe threat to democracy and public safety.
Suspect Description and Warning
The suspect is described as a white male with brown hair, wearing black body armor over a blue shirt and pants, and may continue to impersonate law enforcement.
Law enforcement urges anyone with information to come forward as the search for the suspect continues.
This is a developing story; updates will follow as more information becomes available.
