Minnesota lawmakers murdered in separate overnight attacks, in their separate homes

Two Minnesota state legislators were shot early hours of Saturday, June 14, 2025, in separate incidents at their respective homes, prompting a high-level response from state authorities and raising fresh concerns about political violence in the U.S.

Local media have identified the victims as State Senator John Hoffman and State Representative Melissa Hortman, both affiliated with Minnesota’s Democratic-Farmer-Labor (DFL) Party.

While full details remain scarce, early reports suggest that both lawmakers were injured in what appear to be coordinated shootings at their residences in the Minneapolis suburbs of Champlin and Brooklyn Park.

Minnesota Governor Tim Walz confirmed in a Saturday morning statement that he had been briefed on what he described as an “ongoing situation” in both suburban areas.

He assured the public that law enforcement agencies were actively responding.

Also, he announced that a press conference would be held later in the day to provide updates on the investigation and victim conditions.

The shootings occurred in the early hours following 2 a.m., starting at the Champlin home of Senator Hoffman, who currently serves as Chair of the Minnesota Senate’s Human Services Committee.

A man reportedly arrived at Hoffman’s residence and opened fire, striking at least two people.

The suspect then fled the scene.

Shortly afterward, approximately eight miles away in Brooklyn Park, a similar incident unfolded at the residence of Representative Melissa Hortman.

Hortman previously served as Speaker of the Minnesota House and currently holds the title of Speaker Emerita.

At least one person was reportedly shot at Hortman’s home.

Although the identities and conditions of all victims have not yet been confirmed, veteran KSTP reporter Tom Hauser cited sources saying that both Hoffman and Hortman were among those wounded.

Authorities believe the same suspect may be responsible for both attacks.

A description released by local law enforcement characterizes the perpetrator as a white male with brown hair, dressed in blue clothing and wearing black body armor.

He is reportedly equipped in a manner that may cause him to be mistaken for a law enforcement officer.

The suspect is said to have been driving a distinct vehicle, a dark-colored SUV outfitted with police-style gear.

According to MNCrime, the vehicle featured a push bumper, a driver’s side spotlight, and red-and-blue flashing lights installed on both the dashboard and rear window.

This made it resemble an unmarked police cruiser.

This deceptive appearance may have facilitated his approach to the lawmakers’ homes.

As of now, no arrest has been made, and authorities have not provided details on the suspect’s identity, motives, or whereabouts.

Law enforcement officials are urging the public to remain vigilant and report any sightings or suspicious activity related to the vehicle or individual described.

The incidents come at a time when political violence in the United States is increasingly under scrutiny.

Although acts of violence against public officials remain relatively rare, a recent University of Chicago survey indicates that political aggression is becoming more frequent.

This is notwithstanding that the majority of Americans oppose such behavior.

This latest attack has sent shockwaves through Minnesota’s political community, highlighting the growing risks faced by public servants.

It remains unclear whether the attacks were politically motivated or if the lawmakers were targeted for other reasons.

Investigators are reportedly pursuing multiple leads, including reviewing surveillance footage, interviewing witnesses, and analyzing ballistic evidence recovered from both crime scenes.

State and local authorities are expected to share more information at the scheduled press conference.

The information would supposedly include updates on the victims’ conditions and any progress made in identifying or apprehending the suspect.

For now, both the Champlin and Brooklyn Park communities remain on edge, with increased police presence and ongoing investigations at the affected locations.

Lawmakers across the state are expressing concern, solidarity, and support for their injured colleagues as the state awaits further clarity on this disturbing series of events.

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