Democratic Minnesota Lawmaker Killed, Others Wounded in Politically Motivated Shooting

Minnesota Democratic state representative Melissa Hortman and her husband, Mark, were killed in what Governor Tim Walz described as a politically motivated assassination. Democratic state senator John Hoffman and his wife were also shot but are recovering after surgery. The suspect, a white male impersonating a police officer, engaged law enforcement in a gunfire exchange before escaping, prompting a shelter-in-place order in Brooklyn Park. Governor Walz praised Hortman as a dedicated public servant committed to improving Minnesota, expressing condolences to her family and loved ones. Authorities continue to search for the suspect while treating the incident as targeted political violence. The attacks have shocked the community and raised concerns about political violence in the state.