Targeted Violence: Minnesota Lawmakers Shot in Separate Incidents
Details of the Attacks
In a shocking incident early Saturday morning, two Minnesota lawmakers and their spouses were shot by a suspect impersonating a police officer. The state’s Democratic leadership is now grappling with what officials are calling an act of targeted political violence.
Minnesota State Representative Melissa Hortman and her husband were fatally shot at their residence in Brooklyn Park, while State Senator John Hoffman and his wife were attacked at their home in Champlin. As of this writing, Hoffman and his wife are currently hospitalized and undergoing surgery. Governor Tim Walz expressed cautious optimism regarding their recovery, calling the attacks “assassination attempts” aimed at elected officials.
Suspect Description and Investigation
Law enforcement sources have identified the suspected shooter as Vance Boelter, 57, though further information about his motives remains undisclosed. The Brooklyn Park Police Department issued a shelter-in-place order for a three-mile radius around Edinburgh Golf Course, prompted by the severity of the situation.
By around 5:30 AM, reports began indicating that the suspect, a white male with brown hair, was last seen wearing black body armor. He was described as using law enforcement paraphernalia, including a badge and Taser, during the attacks, and had exited Hortman’s home just before gunfire erupted between him and responding officers.
Targeted Political Violence
Authorities discovered a list of potential targets in the shooter’s possession, which included numerous lawmakers, intensifying fears regarding the safety of political figures in the area. Governor Walz and other officials have urged the public to exercise caution, advising against attending political rallies until the suspect is captured.
In the wake of the assaults, various political figures voiced their outrage. Former Trump Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt affirmed that such violence "will not be tolerated," while Senator Amy Klobuchar decried the shootings as a "stunning act of violence." The Democratic-Farmer-Labor Party Chairman, Ken Martin, also took a stand, reaffirming their commitment to fight for justice and kindness in light of this tragedy.
Public Safety Message
As the manhunt for Boelter intensifies, law enforcement officials have instructed the public not to open their doors to lone police officers, as licensed officers typically work in pairs for safety.
This story is still developing. Additional updates will provide further context and information as it becomes available.
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