Protests Halted in Minnesota as Authorities Search for Suspect in Shooting of Two Lawmakers

Minnesota Lawmaker and Husband Killed, Another Lawmaker Injured in Targeted Shootings; Statewide Protests Cancelled

A 57-year-old man impersonating a police officer is being sought by authorities after two separate shootings targeting Minnesota lawmakers left one dead and another injured. The attacks, described by Governor Tim Walz as “targeted political violence,” have prompted the cancellation of “No Kings” protests scheduled across the state.

Former House Speaker Melissa Hortman and her husband were fatally shot at their Brooklyn Park home in the early hours of Saturday. Just hours later, State Senator John Hoffman and his wife were seriously wounded in a separate shooting at their home in Champlin. All victims were Democrats and reportedly named in writings recovered from a fake police vehicle found near one of the scenes.

“A manifesto found in the vehicle identified several lawmakers and officials,” said Brooklyn Park Police Chief Mark Bruley. “We acted immediately to alert state authorities and secure those potentially at risk.” Authorities said the suspect fled on foot after exchanging gunfire with police. He was reportedly dressed in a law enforcement-style uniform and driving a vehicle rigged to appear identical to a squad car, complete with emergency lights.

Public Safety Commissioner Bob Jacobson called the impersonation a disturbing abuse of public trust:

“The suspect exploited the credibility of law enforcement uniforms. That betrayal cuts deep.”

Amid rising concerns, State Patrol Colonel Christina Bogojevic urged residents to avoid public gatherings, specifically the “No Kings” protests. While no direct threat to the protests was confirmed, flyers linked to the movement were found in the suspect’s vehicle. Protest organizers later announced all demonstrations had been cancelled.

Victims’ Profiles
Melissa Hortman, a veteran lawmaker and former Speaker of the Minnesota House, was first elected in 2004. She and her husband leave behind two children. Senator John Hoffman, serving since 2012, was previously vice chair of the Anoka-Hennepin School Board. He and his wife have one daughter.

Governor Tim Walz confirmed that both officials were targeted:

“This was a deliberate attack on public servants. Political violence has no place in Minnesota — or anywhere in America.” The shootings come amid growing concern over violence and threats against elected officials nationwide.

National Response

• President Donald Trump issued a statement from the White House, confirming FBI involvement:
• “Our Attorney General and the FBI are investigating this tragic event. Such horrific violence will not be tolerated in the United States.”
• House Speaker Lisa Demuth, a Republican, called the killings “evil” and expressed heartbreak over the loss of her colleague and his spouse.

Gun violence prevention advocate Gabrielle Giffords, herself a survivor of a targeted political shooting, condemned the attacks:

“An attack on lawmakers is an attack on democracy itself.”

As of Saturday evening, a shelter-in-place order remained in effect in parts of Brooklyn Park and Champlin, while hundreds of law enforcement officers — some in tactical gear — continued the manhunt for the suspect.