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Former Speaker Melissa Hortman Killed in Political Ambush; Multi-Agency Manhunt Underway

In a chilling attack that’s shaken Minnesota’s political core, former state House Speaker Melissa Hortman, 54, and her husband Mark, 56, were fatally shot in their Brooklyn Park home early Saturday morning. Law enforcement officials have identified the prime suspect as Vance Luther Boelter, a 57-year-old Minnesota man with ties to a private security company, who remains at large.

Just hours before the fatal shooting of the Hortmans, state Senator John Hoffman, 60, and his wife Yvette, 58, were also shot multiple times in their Champlin residence, located approximately 8.3 miles from the second crime scene. The couple survived the assault—Senator Hoffman underwent emergency surgery and is reportedly in stable condition. His wife remains hospitalized in critical but stable condition, according to local health officials.

Authorities are calling the coordinated attacks "targeted political assassinations" and warning of potential further threats.

Suspect Impersonated Police Officer, Used Vehicle with Emergency Sirens

Boelter reportedly impersonated a law enforcement officer, gaining access to the homes by appearing in a vehicle outfitted with police-style lights and sirens. Officials say the suspect was dressed in a light-colored cowboy hat, dark collared shirt, and light trousers—a combination that may have been intended to resemble a deputy’s uniform.

The FBI, now leading the federal portion of the investigation, has offered a $50,000 reward for any credible information leading to Boelter’s arrest. Law enforcement warns that the suspect is armed, dangerous, and likely to be mobile, possibly with additional weapons or tactical gear.

Chilling Manifesto Found: Other Lawmakers Named as Targets

Inside the abandoned suspect vehicle found hours after the shootings, authorities discovered a handwritten manifesto listing additional elected officials—primarily those known for pro-choice advocacy. NBC News confirmed that several names on the list are current Minnesota lawmakers who have supported abortion access and progressive healthcare reforms.

Investigators are working swiftly to notify all individuals mentioned in the document and provide additional protection where necessary. Officials have not released the full contents of the manifesto, citing national security concerns.

Political Motive Feared Amid Rising Rhetoric

Drew Evans, superintendent of the Minnesota Bureau of Criminal Apprehension, stated that while the suspect may have had some prior overlap with Sen. Hoffman, the full extent of the relationship remains unknown.

“We don’t yet know if there were any personal ties,” Evans said in Saturday’s press conference. “But the politically driven nature of the attack is becoming increasingly clear.”

Boelter is currently listed as the Director of Security Patrols at Praetorian Guard Security Services, a Minneapolis-based private security firm. His role and access to security gear, vehicles, and tactical equipment are under scrutiny as investigators dig into the suspect’s background, digital footprint, and possible affiliations with extremist groups.

National Leaders Respond as Law Enforcement Presence Ramps Up

Former President Donald Trump issued a statement on Saturday morning, calling the shootings “horrific acts of violence that will not be tolerated.” He pledged full cooperation from federal agencies and promised justice would be served.

Attorney General Pam Bondi echoed Trump’s sentiments, confirming that the FBI, U.S. Marshals, and Homeland Security agents are now on the ground in Minnesota. Bondi added that federal prosecutors are preparing to bring terrorism-related charges if evidence supports the political nature of the crimes.

Mass Caution: Public Events Paused, Political Rallies Canceled

Out of an “abundance of caution,” the Minnesota State Patrol has advised residents to avoid all large gatherings or political rallies this weekend, especially as thousands were expected to take part in “No Kings Day,” a nationwide protest opposing Trump’s influence over American institutions.

Security officials across major cities including Minneapolis, St. Paul, and Rochester have increased patrols near government buildings, campaign offices, and high-profile politicians’ homes.

Lawmakers Nationwide Condemn the Violence

The Democratic National Committee and lawmakers from across party lines have denounced the attacks as an assault not only on public servants, but also on American democracy.

“This is beyond politics—this is terrorism,” said DNC Chair Ken Martin. “We have to stop normalizing political extremism before it tears this country apart.”

Governor Tim Walz called Hortman a “brilliant public servant and a pillar of our state government,” adding that her passing is not just a personal loss but one that touches the entire Minnesota community. Hortman had served in the House since 2005 and had stepped down as Speaker only months ago.

What Comes Next: The Urgency to Capture Boelter

As of Sunday morning, over 120 federal and local law enforcement officers are part of the dragnet to locate and apprehend Boelter. Drones, K-9 units, and data surveillance teams are combing through digital trails, vehicle cameras, and public leads.

Authorities are urging the public to report any sightings by immediately calling 911 and not attempting to confront the suspect directly.

“This individual has proven capable of executing calculated and lethal attacks,” said Evans. “Our mission is to bring him to justice before anyone else is harmed.”

A Nation on Edge

The coordinated attacks have reignited national debates about the growing threat of domestic extremism, the availability of security equipment to civilians, and the responsibilities of private security firms.

For now, Minnesota mourns the loss of a respected leader and braces for what may be more than just an isolated act. Until Boelter is found, the fear lingers—and so does the determination to not let terror dictate public life.