Tragedy in Minnesota: Democratic Leader and Husband Killed in Politically Motivated Attack

Former Minnesota House Speaker Melissa Hortman and her husband, Mark, were shot and killed Saturday morning at their home in Brooklyn Park in what Governor Tim Walz called a "politically motivated assassination."

During a press conference, Walz also confirmed that DFL State Senator John Hoffman and his wife, Yvette, were shot multiple times at their home in Champlin. A nephew of the couple posted on social media that each had been shot five or six times.

The couple underwent surgery at Mercy Hospital in Coon Rapids, and the governor said he was "cautiously optimistic" about their survival.

"Our state has lost a great leader, and I have lost a dear friend. Speaker Hortman served Minnesota with grace, compassion, humor, and a deep sense of duty," Walz said. "She was a formidable public servant, an iconic figure, and a giant in Minnesota. She woke up every day determined to make this state a better place. She was irreplaceable and will be deeply missed."

Manhunt Underway

Authorities say both lawmakers and their spouses were shot by a gunman posing as a police officer. A massive search is underway in Brooklyn Park for the suspect, and thousands of residents in the area remain under a shelter-in-place order.

Minnesota Bureau of Criminal Apprehension Superintendent Drew Evans said police first responded to the shooting at the Hoffmans' home in Champlin around 2 a.m. At 3:35 a.m., a similar attack was reported at Hortman’s residence.

Brooklyn Park police were already conducting precautionary patrols near Hortman’s home due to her proximity to Hoffman. Evans said officers encountered the suspect, who fired at them. Police returned fire, but the gunman escaped.

Legacy and Reactions

Hortman was first elected to the Minnesota House in 2004 and served as Speaker from 2019 to 2025. She and her husband are survived by their two children.

Republican House Speaker Lisa Demuth, who succeeded Hortman in 2025 under a power-sharing agreement, released a statement condemning the attack:

"I am horrified by this evil act and heartbroken by the loss of former Speaker Melissa Hortman and her husband, Mark," Demuth wrote. "As the investigation continues and more details emerge, I ask all Minnesotans to pray for the victims of this horrific attack and for law enforcement working to apprehend the perpetrator."

Increased Security Measures

Sources say all other Minnesota state lawmakers are under protective custody, coordinated by the Department of Public Safety and local authorities.

The FBI and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF) confirmed their involvement in the investigation.