Minnesota Lawmakers Targeted in Politically Motivated Shooting; Survivors Call Recovery a “Miracle”
(Minneapolis, MN) – Days after a gunman carried out what Minnesota Governor Tim Walz described as “politically motivated” attacks against two state lawmakers and their spouses, the surviving victims have broken their silence, calling their survival against staggering odds nothing short of miraculous.
Authorities arrested Vance Luther Boelter, 57, on June 15 in connection with the shootings that killed State Rep. Melissa Hortman and her husband, Mark, and critically wounded State Sen. John Hoffman and his wife, Yvette. The attacks, which occurred at the victims’ homes on June 14, have sent shockwaves through Minnesota’s political community.
The Attacks: A Chilling Pattern
Investigators say Boelter posed as a law enforcement officer to gain entry into the victims’ residences before opening fire. The shootings unfolded in separate incidents within hours of each other, prompting an intense two-day manhunt that stretched across the state.
Boelter was finally apprehended in Sibley County, roughly 50 miles from Minneapolis, in what authorities called the largest manhunt in Minnesota history. He now faces two counts of second-degree murder for the Hortmans’ deaths and two counts of second-degree attempted murder for the Hoffmans’ injuries, according to court documents.
“Lucky to Be Alive”: The Hoffmans’ Harrowing Ordeal
In a heartbreaking update shared via U.S. Sen. Amy Klobuchar’s social media, Yvette Hoffman revealed the extent of their injuries: she was shot eight times, while her husband, Sen. Hoffman, suffered nine gunshot wounds.
“We are both incredibly lucky to be alive,” Yvette wrote. “The trauma is indescribable, but we are humbled by the love and support we’ve received.”
Yet amid their own suffering, the Hoffmans expressed profound grief over the loss of their colleagues, Melissa and Mark Hortman.
“We are gutted and devastated,” Yvette said. “There is never a place for this kind of political hate. We have no words.”
Sen. Hoffman has undergone multiple surgeries, with doctors cautiously optimistic about his recovery. Gov. Walz confirmed at a press conference that the senator had emerged from his final operation and was “moving toward recovery.”
Gratitude for Law Enforcement
Following Boelter’s arrest, Yvette Hoffman issued a statement to The Minnesota Star Tribune, expressing “deep and profound gratitude” for the law enforcement officers whose relentless efforts brought the suspect into custody.
“Their bravery and dedication saved lives,” she said.
Who Are the Victims?
Sen. John Hoffman, 60, a Democrat originally from Casper, Wyoming, has served in the Minnesota legislature since 2012, winning reelection three times. A graduate of Saint Mary’s University of Minnesota, he previously worked in business and education before entering politics. His early career included a role as vice chair of the Anoka-Hennepin School Board, the state’s largest school district.
Melissa Hortman, the slain lawmaker, was a respected figure in Minnesota politics, known for her advocacy on issues like education reform and healthcare access. Her death has left colleagues and constituents mourning a leader who dedicated her life to public service.
A State in Mourning
The attacks have reignited debates over political violence and security for public officials. Gov. Walz condemned the shootings as “an assault on democracy itself,” while lawmakers from both parties called for unity in the face of extremism.
As the Hoffmans continue their long road to recovery, their message remains one of resilience—but also a stark warning about the dangers of division.
“We will heal,” Yvette Hoffman said. “But we must never let hate win.”
