2 Minnesota Lawmakers Targeted in Overnight Suburban Shootings/ Newslooks/ WASHINGTON/ J. Mansour/ Morning Edition/ Minnesota State Senator John Hoffman and State Representative Melissa Hortman—both Democrats—were shot overnight in their homes in Champlin and Brooklyn Park suburbs of Minneapolis. Governor Tim Walz declared the incidents targeted attacks and mobilized state emergency responders. Investigators are examining whether the assailant impersonated law enforcement to gain access.
Suburban Lawmakers Shot: Quick Facts
- Two Democratic lawmakers—Sen. John Hoffman and Rep. Melissa Hortman—were shot at their homes early Saturday.
- Hoffman’s wife was also wounded in the shooting at their Champlin residence.
- Officials believe the attacks were targeted, with a suspect possibly posing as law enforcement.
- Governor Walz activated the State Emergency Operations Center and a joint information unit.
- Shelter-in-place orders were issued in parts of Brooklyn Park as police responded.
- Investigation ongoing, with motives and suspect identity still unknown.
- Calls for remembrance flood social media, including from Sen. Amy Klobuchar and former Rep. Gabby Giffords.
- Lawmakers are leaders and parents, both deeply active in state education and public policy.
2 Minnesota Lawmakers Targeted in Overnight Suburban Shootings
Deep Look
What Happened
In the early hours of Saturday, both Minnesota State Senator John Hoffman and State Representative Melissa Hortman were shot inside their homes in Champlin and Brooklyn Park, respectively. Law enforcement responded swiftly after neighbors reported gunfire, prompting shelter-in-place orders around the areas near Edinburgh Golf Course.
Immediate Official Response
Governor Tim Walz activated the State Emergency Operations Center and joined officials on the ground. A Joint Information Center has been set up to coordinate messaging. Local and state authorities are collaborating closely, mobilizing all available resources to assess the situation and ensure safety.
Targeted Attack, Impersonation Possible
Investigators suspect the shootings were deliberate attacks on elected officials, with initial reports suggesting the perpetrator may have pretended to be law enforcement to gain entry. Officials continue to investigate the suspect’s identity and motives.
Profiles of Lawmakers
Senator John Hoffman, first elected in 2012, is a consultant and former vice-chair of the largest school district board in Minnesota. He and his wife live in Champlin with their daughter. Representative Melissa Hortman, elected in 2004, is the top House Democratic leader and a former Speaker of the House. She is a lawyer and mother of two.
Community and Political Impact
Minnesota Senator Amy Klobuchar expressed support on social media, calling the attack “a stunning act of violence” and thanking first responders. Former Congresswoman Gabby Giffords—who survived a high-profile political shooting—called for condemnation of rising political violence.
Ongoing Investigation
Enforcement agencies are working to identify suspects, confirm whether any collusion occurred, and determine the broader motive. Additional shelter-in-place directives may be issued if more threats emerge.
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