Urgent: Minnesota Lawmakers Melissa Hortman and John Hoffman Under Attack – Suspect Still at Large

A serious situation is unfolding in Minnesota. Two state lawmakers were attacked, resulting in the death of one. Governor Tim Walz called it an “act of targeted political violence.”

Melissa Hortman, 55, a Democrat, was killed in Brooklyn Park, near Minneapolis. In a related attack, John Hoffman, 60, was shot at his home approximately 15 kilometers away. Luckily, he survived surgery and is in stable condition.

Police are actively searching for the suspect, Vance Luther Boelter, 57. He reportedly used a fake police badge and uniform to gain entry to the victims’ homes. There’s a $50,000 reward for anyone who provides information leading to his arrest.

The situation escalated quickly. The first report of gunfire came at 2:00 AM, focusing on Hoffman’s home. A second call at 3:35 AM alerted officers to Hortman’s residence. When police arrived, they exchanged shots with the suspect, but he managed to flee. The police, alongside the FBI and SWAT teams, are conducting a large-scale manhunt. As of now, authorities believe the suspect might be on foot.

In light of these events, officials have urged residents not to open their doors for police officers unless there are two present. Security measures have been heightened across the state, and protests against former President Donald Trump were canceled after flyers were found in Boelter’s vehicle.

In response to the violence, Bob Jacobson, Minnesota’s public safety commissioner, emphasized that this attack on public servants is “violent and cowardly.” The state is on high alert, with many officials expressing their fears over the targeted attacks.

Former Vice President Al Gore paid tribute to Hortman, stating she made a lasting impact during her time with him in the Senate. Nancy Pelosi also shared her condolences. “This climate of politically-motivated violence must end,” she said.

Hortman, an attorney, served in the Minnesota House of Representatives since 2004 and was House Speaker from 2019 until her tragic death. She was known for her advocacy on women’s rights, clean energy, and school nutrition programs. Her commitment to policing reform after the killing of George Floyd also stood out, as she helped implement a state ban on chokeholds.

With more discussions around the issue of political violence, this incident raises questions about the safety of public officials. In recent years, there has been a troubling increase in violent threats against lawmakers, prompting debates about security and the need for more protective measures.

As Minnesota grapples with this loss, it becomes essential for communities to come together and work against violence in politics.



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