Minnesota Lawmaker Melissa Hortman Killed, Suspect At Large After Targeted Shootings

Melissa Hortman, a respected Democratic Minnesota state representative and former Speaker of the Minnesota House, was tragically shot and killed alongside her husband in a politically motivated attack. Hortman, known for her bipartisan collaboration and leadership on issues like healthcare, reproductive rights, and climate policy, was widely admired by colleagues across the political spectrum. The suspect, Vance Luther Boelter, also injured Minnesota State Sen. John Hoffman and his wife before the shooting of Hortman and her husband. Leaders and colleagues, including Gov. Tim Walz and members of the Minnesota legislature, mourned Hortman as a fierce but compassionate advocate and a commanding presence in the state Capitol. She held degrees from Boston University and Harvard Kennedy School, reflecting a strong background in public policy and law. The FBI is assisting local authorities in the ongoing manhunt for Boelter, underscoring the gravity of this unprecedented act of political violence in Minnesota.