News Summary
Former Minnesota House Speaker Melissa Hortman and her husband Mark were tragically killed in a targeted shooting at their home. The attack has raised alarms about political violence in the community. The incident also involved state Senator John A. Hoffman and his wife, who were seriously injured in a separate shooting nearby. Law enforcement launched a significant manhunt, capturing the suspect who had a list of political figures connected to the current climate of hostility towards public officials. The community mourns the loss and reflects on the dangers faced by those in public service.
Tragic Loss in Minnesota: Former Lawmaker and Husband Fall Victim to Targeted Shooting
In a heartbreaking turn of events, former Minnesota House Speaker Melissa Hortman and her husband Mark were tragically killed in a shooting at their home in Brooklyn Park on June 14, 2025. This shocking attack has been characterized as “targeted political violence”, stirring deep concern and sorrow among Minnesotans and beyond.
A Dark Day
The violence took place in the early hours of Saturday, leaving the community reeling. On a grim note, state Senator John A. Hoffman and his wife Yvette were also victims of gun violence in a different attack at their Champlin residence, located just about nine miles away. The injuries sustained by the Hoffmans were severe, with Yvette reporting that her husband underwent multiple surgeries after being shot nine times.
The Manhunt
Law enforcement launched an extensive two-day manhunt for the suspect, Vance Luther Boelter, leading to his capture on June 15, 2025. The search was no small feat, involving over 100 officers and various SWAT teams. Brooklyn Park Police Chief Mark Bruley described this manhunt as “the largest in the state’s history”, showcasing the seriousness of the situation.
Boelter was eventually found hiding in a field in Sibley County, southwest of Minneapolis. Clues leading to his arrest included a cowboy hat and a vehicle believed to belong to him, found just a few miles from his home in Green Isle. A list of around 70 names, which included prominent figures known for supporting abortion rights, was also discovered in writings linked to Boelter’s vehicle.
The Altercation
According to reports, the police responded to a distress call from the Hoffmans’ adult daughter, arriving at their home just in time to witness Boelter firing at Mark Hortman before the officers exchanged gunfire with him. Unfortunately, this act of violence quickly turned fatal when the Hortmans lost their lives amidst the chaos.
A Community in Mourning
In light of these tragic events, public memorials have sprung up, with flowers and heartfelt notes honoring the lives of the Hortmans placed at the State Capitol. Communities far and wide are showing their support and paying tribute to Melissa Hortman, who served as House Speaker since 2017, proving to be a significant leader during critical political times. Her efforts in advancing abortion rights earned her respect and recognition within the political landscape.
Shared Pain
The Hoffmans and Hortmans were both parents to adult children, mirroring a painful reality that stretches beyond politics. Yvette Hoffman, while recovering from her own injuries—sustaining eight bullet hits during the shooting—also faces the emotional turmoil of her husband’s ordeal. The intense feelings of fear and vulnerability are palpable within the community, especially as warnings have been issued to other state officials, highlighting the potential for similar acts of violence.
Rising Concerns
The attacks on the Hortmans and Hoffmans come amid a national context of growing harassment and violence aimed at political figures. Many stress that political discourse has taken a dangerous turn, underscoring how divisive times can increase hostility towards those in public service.
As we reflect on this devastating loss, it serves as a somber reminder of the risks faced by those leading in public life and the impact of political volatility on individual lives. As tributes continue to pour in for Melissa Hortman and her husband Mark, the community is united in remembrance and mourning, feeling the profound weight of this tragic event in Minnesota’s history.
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
- AP News: Minnesota Lawmakers Shot
- Wikipedia: Minnesota State Legislature
- The New York Times: Minnesota Shootings
- Google Search: Minnesota shootings June 2025
- NBC News: Minnesota Lawmaker Shootings Live Updates
- Google Scholar: Political Violence Minnesota
- CNN: Minnesota Shootings Manhunt
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Political Violence
- ABC News: Trump Call to Walz
- Google News: Melissa Hortman shooting
- KSTP: Suspect Sought in Targeted Shootings
Author: STAFF HERE ROCK HILL
The ROCK HILL STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HERERockHill.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Rock Hill, York County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as the Come-See-Me Festival, Rock Hill Arts Festival, and motorsport events at the Rock Hill Velodrome. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Rock Hill Chamber of Commerce and the Culture & Heritage Museums, plus leading businesses in manufacturing and technology that power the local economy such as 3D Systems and Comporium. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREAiken.com, HEREBeaufort.com, HEREChapin.com, HERECharleston.com, HEREClinton.com, HEREColumbia.com, HEREGeorgetown.com, HEREGreenwood.com, HEREGreenville.com, HEREHiltonHead.com, HEREIrmo.com, HEREMyrtleBeach.com, HERENewberry.com, HERERockHill.com, and HERESpartanburg.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into South Carolina's dynamic landscape.
