BROOKLYN PARK, Minn. — Minnesota Governor Tim Walz has declared a state of emergency after a gunman impersonating a police officer killed Democratic state Rep. Melissa Hortman and her husband Mark, while critically wounding state Sen. John Hoffman and his wife Yvette in targeted pre-dawn attacks Saturday. Authorities describe the shootings as a “politically motivated assassination” with the suspect still at large.
Key Developments
- Suspect remains fugitive after exchanging gunfire with police
- Fake police SUV, uniform used to gain entry to victims’ homes
- Hit list of lawmakers found in abandoned vehicle; others now under protection
- Massive manhunt underway with residents sheltering in place
How the Attacks Unfolded
At approximately 2 a.m. Saturday, the assailant—wearing an authentic-looking police uniform and driving a replica squad SUV—knocked on doors in two Minneapolis suburbs:
- Champlin: Shot Hoffman (60) and his wife Yvette in their home
- Brooklyn Park: Killed Hortman (58) and her husband Mark before fleeing
Police discovered the ruse when officers, while responding to the Hoffman shooting, proactively checked on Hortman—a fellow Democratic-Farmer-Labor Party member—and encountered the disguised gunman. A firefight ensued before the suspect vanished on foot.
Evidence Points to Political Motive
Authorities revealed chilling details:
✔ Detailed hit list of lawmakers found in suspect’s abandoned vehicle
✔ Precise impersonation of law enforcement (uniform, gear, vehicle markings)
✔ Targeted DFL politicians known for progressive policies
“This was a deliberate attack on our democracy,” said Gov. Walz, his voice breaking during a press conference. “Melissa woke up every day determined to make this state better.”
Ongoing Threat & Security Response
- 3-mile shelter-in-place order near Edinburgh Golf Course
- All single-officer responses suspended statewide
- Residents warned: Verify any officer’s identity via 911 before opening doors
“No question—if you saw this person, you’d assume they’re police,” warned Brooklyn Park Police Chief Mark Bruley.
Victims Remembered
Melissa Hortman
- 20-year legislative veteran
- Championed education and healthcare reforms
- Survived by two children
John Hoffman
- State senator since 2012
- Currently in stable condition after surgery
- Family advocacy leader
“A dark day for Minnesota, but we won’t let violence define us,” said Public Safety Commissioner Bob Jacobson.
National Reactions
- President Trump condemned the “targeted attack” in a statement
- Sen. Amy Klobuchar mourned her longtime friend Hortman as “the best of public servants”
- FBI assisting with investigation
What’s Next
Authorities urge anyone with information to contact the BCA Tip Line (877-996-6222). The State Emergency Operations Center remains activated as the search intensifies.
