A tragic wave of politically motivated violence has shaken Minnesota. On Saturday morning, State Representative Melissa Hortman and her husband, Mark, were fatally shot in their Brooklyn Park home. Just hours earlier, State Senator John Hoffman and his wife were also attacked and critically wounded. Governor Tim Walz called the incident “a politically motivated assassination.”

Officers responding to the Hortman residence encountered a suspect disguised as a police officer, who opened fire before fleeing. “No officers were injured,” authorities confirmed. A multi-agency manhunt is now underway, involving the FBI and local law enforcement. Officials have warned the public to verify any police presence by calling 911.

Melissa Hortman was a dedicated public servant, serving 11 terms in the Minnesota House and recently as Speaker. “Her legacy is one of deep roots, civic devotion, and enduring impact,” said Walz. She championed causes from education to environmental policy.

Her husband, Mark, was a respected tech leader known for his innovation and leadership. The couple raised their family in Brooklyn Park and were deeply involved in their community.

President Joe Biden condemned the attack, writing, “We must give hate and extremism no safe harbor… and unite against political violence as a nation.”