Brooklyn Park, MN — Two Minnesota lawmakers and their spouses were shot early Saturday morning in what police believe were coordinated, targeted attacks at their homes. The suspect, who was reportedly dressed as a police officer, is still at large, prompting a region-wide manhunt and a shelter-in-place order.
The first shooting happened around 2 a.m. at the Champlin residence of State Senator John Hoffman. Authorities say Hoffman was shot at least twice, and his wife, Yvette, was shot three times. The couple was found inside their home and transported to a nearby hospital. Their conditions remain critical, and they are being treated for life-threatening injuries.
Shortly after, a second shooting was reported in Brooklyn Park at the home of State Representative Melissa Hortman, who is the Democratic leader in the Minnesota House of Representatives. Both Hortman and her husband, Mark, were shot. Their current conditions have not been officially released, but early reports suggest they may also be in grave condition.
The suspect is described as a white male with brown hair, wearing black body armor over a blue shirt and blue pants—an outfit resembling a police uniform. Authorities believe he may be trying to impersonate law enforcement. Brooklyn Park Police issued an emergency alert urging residents to confirm the identity of any officers who come to their door and to call 911 before opening it.
A shelter-in-place order is in effect within a three-mile radius of the Edinburgh Golf Course in Brooklyn Park. Law enforcement agencies, including the Minnesota Department of Public Safety, are actively searching for the suspect and asking the public to remain indoors and vigilant. Anyone who sees the suspect is urged not to approach him and to contact 911 immediately.
Minnesota Governor Tim Walz confirmed he is being kept updated on the situation. “Local law enforcement and the Minnesota Department of Public Safety are on the ground,” Walz posted on X (formerly Twitter). “We are closely monitoring developments and will share more details as soon as possible.”
As investigators work to determine a motive and track down the shooter, the violent attacks have left the state shocked and deeply concerned for the safety of public officials. Updates are expected as the investigation continues.