Law enforcement agencies across Minnesota have launched a sweeping manhunt after two Democratic lawmakers were gunned down in separate attacks early Saturday morning.
Officials admitted that despite a confrontation, the main suspect was able to flee the scene.
The FBI is now offering a $50,000 reward for information “leading to the arrest and conviction” of 57-year-old Vance Boelter, who is suspected of carrying out the shootings on the lawmakers and their spouses.
State Representative Melissa Hortman and her husband were fatally shot at their Brooklyn Park residence, while State Senator John Hoffman and his spouse were wounded in an earlier attack at their home in Champlin, located approximately 20 miles north of Minneapolis.
Authorities confirmed that Hoffman and his wife remain in critical condition.
The first attack unfolded shortly after 2 a.m., when shots rang out at Hoffman’s home.
A little over two hours later, around 4 a.m., the second shooting took place at Hortman’s home. Police responded to reports of gunfire and were met with return fire as they arrived.
“The individual was able to escape during that exchange of gunfire,” said Drew Evans, head of the Minnesota Bureau of Criminal Apprehension, during a press briefing.
Governor Tim Walz later addressed the press, identifying the deceased as Speaker Emerita Hortman and her husband.
“My good friend and colleague, Speaker Melissa Hortman, and her husband, Mark, were shot and killed early this morning in what appears to be a politically-motivated assassination,” Walz said.
The FBI offers a reward of up to $50,000 for info leading to the arrest and conviction of Vance L. Boelter, suspected of shooting two Minnesota lawmakers and their spouses at their residences on June 14, 2025: https://t.co/XjawGOt5lq pic.twitter.com/tZ9RE97OHk
— FBI Most Wanted (@FBIMostWanted) June 14, 2025
“Our state lost a great leader, and I lost the dearest of friends. Speaker Hortman was someone who served the people of Minnesota with grace, compassion, humor and a sense of service. She was a formidable public servant, a fixture and a giant in Minnesota.”
Authorities confirmed that the assailant, believed to be wearing body armor and outfitted to resemble a law enforcement officer, opened fire on police at Hortman’s residence around 3:35 a.m.
A vehicle equipped with police-style lights was discovered parked outside the home when officers arrived.
Police said the suspect remains at large and may not have acted alone. During a Saturday morning press conference, officials stated that multiple shooters may be involved, but no arrests have been made.
Investigators recovered what they described as a manifesto from a vehicle found at the Brooklyn Park scene. That document allegedly included a list of political figures, including both Hortman and Hoffman.
Given the possibility that the shooter posed as a police officer, Brooklyn Park’s police chief urged residents to call 911 to verify the identity of any law enforcement personnel who appear at their doors.
“Residents of Brooklyn Park are encouraged to continue to stay in their homes,” the chief said. “If a police officer comes to your door, call 911 to confirm whether an officer is supposed to be there.”
The Minnesota State Patrol issued an alert urging the public to avoid any planned demonstrations, particularly those opposing President Donald Trump’s deportations.
Flyers promoting ‘NO KINGS’ rallies, intended to coincide with Trump’s birthday parade, were reportedly found in a vehicle believed to be connected to the assailant.
Minneapolis Mayor Jacob Frey stated that additional resources have been allocated to protect public officials who may be at risk. His office said that city police are actively assisting with the ongoing search.
“I am sickened by the assassination of Speaker Hortman and the attack on Senator Hoffman,” Frey said.
He noted that he had been in communication with local law enforcement leadership throughout the morning.
“Political violence is evil. It cannot be tolerated, and neither can those who condone it or make excuses for it,” he added.
The United States Capitol Police released a statement confirming their awareness of the events.
“The United States Capitol Police is aware of the violence targeting state lawmakers in Minnesota. We have been working with our federal, state and local partners. For safety reasons, we cannot provide specific details about our security posture.”
According to a source speaking with CNN, the Capitol Police have reached out to members of Congress who were identified in the suspect’s alleged manifesto.
National leaders also responded publicly. House Speaker Mike Johnson said via X: “Such horrific political violence has no place in our society, and every leader must unequivocally condemn it. Our prayers are with the Hortman and Hoffman families as well as the people of Minnesota during this tragic time.”
House Minority Leader Hakeem Jeffries wrote, “The targeted shootings of Minnesota Senator John Hoffman and State Rep. Melissa Hortman are deeply disturbing. Violence is never acceptable. Praying hard for the victims and all who have been affected.”
President Donald Trump also issued a statement, calling the attacks “terrible.”
“Such horrific violence will not be tolerated in the United States of America,” Trump said. “God Bless the great people of Minnesota, a truly great place!”
