A gunman impersonating a police officer has killed Minnesota House Democratic Leader Melissa Hortman and wounded State Senator John Hoffman in targeted attacks that authorities are describing as political assassinations.

At a Glance

• Rep. Melissa Hortman and her husband were fatally shot in their Brooklyn Park home by a suspect posing as law enforcement
• State Sen. John Hoffman and his wife were wounded in a similar attack at their Champlin home and are expected to survive
• A document listing other lawmakers and officials was found in the shooter’s vehicle, suggesting more targets were planned
• “No Kings” flyers related to anti-Trump protests were discovered in the suspect’s vehicle
• A manhunt continues for the white male suspect who was wearing police-style clothing with body armor

Targeted Political Assassinations

Minnesota authorities have launched a massive manhunt after a suspect impersonating a police officer fatally shot Minnesota House Democratic Leader Melissa Hortman and her husband John in their Brooklyn Park home, while also wounding State Senator John Hoffman and his wife in a separate attack at their Champlin residence. The shootings occurred overnight, sending shockwaves through Minnesota’s political landscape and prompting immediate security measures for other elected officials across the state.

Law enforcement officials discovered disturbing evidence in the suspect’s vehicle indicating the attacks were meticulously planned. A document listing other lawmakers and public officials was found, suggesting the shooter had additional targets. Investigators also located “No Kings” flyers connected to anti-Trump protests, which has led to the cancellation of related events throughout Minnesota as a precautionary measure. The evidence points to a premeditated political attack rather than random violence.

UPDATE: Sources confirm Minnesota State Sen. John Hoffman and Rep. Melissa Hortman were targeted in shootings Saturday morning in Brooklyn Park and Champlin. The suspect was impersonating a police officer. A shelter-in-place order is in effect. https://t.co/utENGKh0PB

— FOX 9 (@FOX9) June 14, 2025

Massive Police Response

Brooklyn Park Police Department has issued a shelter-in-place order covering a 3-mile radius around Edinburgh Golf Course as the search for the suspect intensifies. Residents have been instructed to remain indoors and to verify the identity of any law enforcement officer who may come to their door by calling 911 directly. The suspect is described as a white male with brown hair, wearing a blue shirt, blue pants, and a black tactical vest designed to resemble police attire.

The Hennepin County Sheriff’s Office leads the investigation with Brooklyn Park Police serving as the lead agency. Multiple law enforcement organizations have joined the effort to locate and apprehend the suspect, deploying significant resources throughout the affected communities. Schools in the area have implemented lockdown procedures, and public buildings have enhanced security measures until further notice.

BREAKING: A gunman believed to be impersonating a police officer is at large after opening fire early this morning at the homes of two Minnesota legislators, injuring three people.https://t.co/DBFZw4wuVe

— MN CRIME (@MN_CRIME) June 14, 2025

Political Leaders React

Minnesota Governor Tim Walz has condemned the attacks in the strongest terms, describing them as “politically motivated” and “a political assassination.” The governor has ordered increased security for all state legislators and public officials while the suspect remains at large. National political figures from both parties have expressed shock and outrage at the targeted violence against elected officials.

“Such horrific political violence has no place in our society, and every leader must unequivocally condemn it.”, U.S. House Speaker Mike Johnson said.

Hortman, who served as a prominent Democratic leader and former House speaker, was widely respected across party lines for her legislative work. Senator Hoffman, who represents Minnesota Senate District 34, has served on numerous committees during his tenure. The attack on these public servants has sent a chill through Minnesota’s political community, raising serious concerns about the safety of elected officials and the increasingly volatile political climate in America.

Community on Edge

Local officials have joined in condemning the violence while urging residents to remain vigilant. Mounds View Mayor Zach Lindstrom expressed the shock felt by many in the community. Law enforcement has established multiple checkpoints throughout Brooklyn Park and Champlin, stopping vehicles matching the description of the suspect’s and conducting door-to-door inquiries where possible, while maintaining heightened alert protocols for resident safety.

As the manhunt continues, authorities are asking anyone with information about the suspect or suspicious activity to contact law enforcement immediately. Officials stress that the public should not approach anyone matching the suspect’s description but should instead call 911 to report potential sightings. The investigation remains active as communities across Minnesota grapple with the realization that political violence has struck close to home.