Two Minnesota lawmakers shot in targeted attack, authorities launch manhunt for the gunman.

Minnesota State Representative Melissa Hortman and her husband were tragically shot and killed on Saturday in an event characterized by authorities as targeted political violence. The incident also involved Senator John Hoffman and his wife, who sustained injuries during the attack. The shootings occurred at the respective homes of the lawmakers in proximity to Minneapolis, specifically in Brooklyn Park and Champlin, which are approximately eight miles apart.

Minnesota Governor Tim Walz condemned the violence, emphasizing that peaceful discourse is essential to democracy and that differences should not be resolved through acts of violence. While both Hortman and her spouse lost their lives in the attack, Hoffman and his wife, Yvette, underwent surgery, with medical professionals expressing cautious optimism regarding their recovery.

Initial reports indicate that the shooter was still present when law enforcement officers arrived at Hortman’s residence around 3:35 a.m. During a subsequent exchange of gunfire, the assailant managed to escape the scene. Drew Evans, head of the Minnesota Bureau of Criminal Apprehension, provided insight into the situation, stating that the suspect was equipped with a tactical vest, a taser, and a badge, suggesting an attempt to impersonate law enforcement. Authorities further noted that the shooter was operating a vehicle designed to resemble a police SUV, complete with emergency lights.

Local law enforcement has identified several “persons of interest” in the case, although no suspects were in custody as of late Saturday morning. Residents living near the Edinburgh Golf Course in Brooklyn Park received a shelter-in-place notification, urging them to remain alert to a suspect described as wearing black body armor over a blue shirt. Authorities cautioned the public that the individual could still be impersonating a police officer and should be considered armed and dangerous.

In response to the violence, Governor Walz activated the State Emergency Operations Center, assuring citizens that the Minnesota Department of Public Safety, along with local law enforcement agencies, were on the scene and coordinating their efforts.

State lawmakers expressed their outrage and sorrow across social media platforms following the shootings. Senator Amy Klobuchar described the events as a stunning act of violence and expressed gratitude for the quick response from law enforcement.

Hortman, who had served nearly two decades as a legislator and was the speaker of the Minnesota House of Representatives until earlier this year, is remembered as a dedicated public servant and a devoted mother of two children. The tragic events have prompted a state and national conversation regarding political violence in the country, raising concerns about the safety of public officials and the need for peaceful engagement in political discourse.

The investigation remains ongoing as authorities work diligently to apprehend the suspect.