Targeted Violence: Minnesota Lawmaker and Family Shot, Colleagues Killed
In a shocking turn of events on Saturday, Minnesota State Senator John Hoffman and his wife, Yvette, were both critically injured in a brutal shooting at their home, a tragic incident that also claimed the lives of fellow lawmaker Melissa Hortman and her husband, Mark. The violence, which authorities are treating as politically motivated, has sent shockwaves through the community, raising urgent concerns about the safety of public officials.
Late Night Horror
The incident began around 2 a.m. when the Hoffmans were awakened by loud knocks on their front door. The assailant, later identified as 57-year-old Vance Boelter, posed as a police officer, urging the couple to let him in. Upon opening the door, the Hoffmans were met with a gun pointed directly at them.
In a harrowing confrontation, Senator Hoffman, who sustained nine gunshot wounds, lunged at the gunman. As he fell, Yvette attempted to push the assailant away and successfully shut the door, only to be struck by gunfire herself, suffering eight wounds. Their daughter, Hope, managed to lock the door and call 911, potentially saving her own life and that of her parents.
Tragic Consequences
Following the attack on the Hoffmans, Boelter drove to the home of Melissa and Mark Hortman in Brooklyn Park, where he shot and killed both before fleeing the scene. Authorities later confirmed that the Hortmans’ family dog was also killed in the attack.
The Hoffmans, who are now recovering in the hospital, described their devastation at losing close friends, stating, “We are heartbroken to know that our friends Melissa and Mark were assassinated.” John remains in critical but stable condition, while Yvette is stable.
Manhunt and Charges
The violent spree led to a massive manhunt—the largest in Minnesota’s history. Boelter was apprehended approximately 43 hours later and now faces multiple charges, including murder, in federal custody.
Investigators revealed that Boelter possessed a "hit list" of 70 targets, predominantly Democrats and individuals associated with Planned Parenthood or abortion rights organizations. Minnesota Governor Tim Walz condemned the violence as "targeted political violence," calling for a return to civility in political discourse.
Call for Civility
The Hoffmans acknowledged the inherent risks of public service, sharing their thoughts on the current climate: “As a society, as a nation, as a community, we must work together to return to a level of civility that allows us all to live peacefully.” The community has rallied around the Hoffmans and the victims’ families, underlining the pressing need for security and support for public officials.
Updates to this developing story will be provided as new information becomes available.
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Bio: Marcus is a community-based journalist passionate about reporting impactful stories that matter most to readers.