A shocking pair of early-morning shootings left Minnesota reeling as two state lawmakers and their spouses were targeted in what officials say were politically driven attacks.

Authorities say former House Speaker Melissa Hortman and her husband were fatally shot in their home, while Sen. John Hoffman and his wife were seriously wounded in a second coordinated attack; the armed suspect, who remains on the run, is accused of impersonating law enforcement during the assault, as KSTP reports.

At approximately 2:00 a.m. on Saturday Champlin police responded to a call from the home of Democratic state Sen. John Hoffman. Hoffman and his wife, Yvette, had both been shot multiple times by an assailant. Emergency crews transported the couple to Mercy Hospital in Coon Rapids, where they underwent surgery. Officials say both are now in recovery.

Little more than an hour later, authorities were dispatched to another suburban neighborhood—this time in Brooklyn Park. There, emergency responders discovered House Speaker-emerita Melissa Hortman, 55, and her husband Mark, 58, dead from multiple gunshot wounds at their home on Windsor Terrace. The shootings, spaced just over an hour apart, appeared meticulously planned and deliberately carried out.

When police arrived at the Hortman residence around 3:35 a.m., they encountered an armed suspect dressed to resemble a police officer. He was wearing body armor, carrying a Taser, and driving what looked like a law enforcement vehicle fitted with flashing lights. Officers exchanged gunfire with the suspect, who escaped the scene on foot or by vehicle. No officers were injured during the exchange.

Suspect remains at large

Following the attacks, law enforcement identified the suspect as 57-year-old Vance Boelter. Boelter's background includes prior government involvement -- he was appointed to Minnesota’s Workforce Development Council in 2016 by then-Gov. Mark Dayton was reappointed in 2019 by Gov. Tim Walz. His term on the council expired last year.

Boelter’s last known address is in Green Isle, Minnesota, but authorities believe he has since fled that area. He is described as 6 feet 1 inch tall, weighing 220 pounds, with brown hair and brown eyes. He may be wearing a light-toned cowboy hat, a dark-colored collared shirt or coat, light pants, and carrying a dark bag.

The city of Brooklyn Park issued a shelter-in-place alert immediately after the shootings, but that order has since been lifted as investigators believe Boelter is no longer in the area. However, law enforcement continues to treat him as armed and extremely dangerous.

Public officials react with shock, grief

Walz quickly condemned the violence, referring to the shootings as a “politically motivated assassination.” Speaking on Saturday, the governor expressed grief over the death of his longtime colleague and friend, describing Hortman as a tireless public servant who devoted her career to the people of Minnesota.

"Our state lost a great leader, and I lost the dearest of friends," Walz said. "She was a giant in Minnesota politics and public life. She is irreplaceable and will be missed by so many." The governor also expressed hope for Sen. Hoffman and Yvette’s recovery, saying he was “cautiously optimistic.”

Republican House Speaker Lisa Demuth, who succeeded Hortman following a 2025 power-sharing agreement, issued a statement urging prayers for the victims and their families. She called the attack "evil" and said she was “horrified and heartbroken beyond words.”

Federal agencies join manhunt

The FBI and ATF have joined state and local agencies in the search for Boelter. The FBI is currently offering a $50,000 reward for information that leads to his arrest and conviction. Authorities are encouraging the public to stay alert and submit any tips through 911, the Minnesota tip line at 877-996-6222, or the national FBI line at 1-800-225-5324.

In a rare move, protective details have been assigned to other Minnesota lawmakers as a precaution. Police continue to investigate whether Boelter had compiled any list of political targets or communicated a manifesto before carrying out the attacks.

Melissa Hortman had served in the Minnesota House of Representatives for over a decade, holding the role of Speaker from 2019 to 2025. She and Mark Hortman are survived by their two adult children, who are now being supported by extended family and the wider community.

Lessons to learn

1. Be cautious about unexpected late-night visitors claiming to be law enforcement. Boelter reportedly wore a police-style vest and drove a vehicle outfitted to look official. Verify identities by contacting 911 if someone arrives unexpectedly, especially in the early morning hours.

2. Stay updated on community safety alerts and shelter-in-place orders. Following the shootings, Brooklyn Park authorities quickly issued a shelter-in-place notice. Adhering to these warnings can protect individuals from potential danger during volatile situations.

3. Recognize that anyone can be targeted, and it is never the victim’s fault. No amount of preparation can fully eliminate risk, especially from those who are motivated and violent. While it’s important to remain vigilant and informed, it is essential not to blame victims for the actions of perpetrators.

Why this story matters

This case highlights the growing threat of politically motivated violence in American communities.

It underscores the critical importance of protecting public officials and maintaining the integrity of democratic institutions.

The tragedy also reminds us of the human lives behind public service and the vulnerabilities that come with leadership roles.