BROOKLYN PARK, Minn. — Former House Speaker Melissa Hortman and her husband, Mark Hortman, were shot and killed in their Brooklyn Park home early Saturday in what Governor Tim Walz described as a “politically motivated assassination.” The shocking attack has left the state reeling and prompted an urgent manhunt for the gunman.
In a press conference Saturday morning, Gov. Walz also confirmed that State Senator John Hoffman and his wife, Yvette, were critically injured after being shot multiple times at their home in nearby Champlin. Both underwent emergency surgery and are now in recovery. Walz said he is “cautiously optimistic” about their chances of survival.
“Our state lost a great leader, and I lost the dearest of friends,” Walz said. “Speaker Hortman was someone who served Minnesota with grace, compassion, humor, and a deep commitment to public service. She was a giant in our politics—respected across the aisle and loved by the people she served. Her absence will be deeply felt.”
According to authorities, both attacks were carried out by a suspect posing as a law enforcement officer. The suspect remains at large, and a manhunt is underway in the Brooklyn Park area. Residents are being urged to remain vigilant and report any suspicious activity. The suspect is considered armed and dangerous.
Melissa Hortman, a Democrat from Brooklyn Park, was first elected to the Minnesota House of Representatives in 2004. She served as House Speaker from 2019 until early 2025, when she was succeeded by Republican Rep. Lisa Demuth under a bipartisan power-sharing arrangement in the evenly divided chamber.
In a written statement, Demuth expressed her grief and condemnation of the attack.
“I am horrified by the evil attack that took place overnight, and heartbroken beyond words by the loss of Speaker-Emerita Melissa Hortman and her husband Mark,” Demuth said. “With law enforcement still working to apprehend the perpetrator, I ask all Minnesotans to lift up the victims in prayer, as well as the officers risking their lives to protect us.”
Melissa and Mark Hortman are survived by their two children.
In response to the attacks, the Minnesota Department of Public Safety has placed state lawmakers under protective custody in coordination with local law enforcement agencies. Investigators have not yet released details about a motive, but officials have confirmed the attacks appear politically driven.
Further updates are expected as the investigation continues.