June 14, 2025 | Brooklyn Park, MN — In a shocking turn of events, Minnesota lawmakers Rep. Melissa Hortman and Senator John Hoffman were shot in their homes in Brooklyn Park and Champlin, respectively, in what authorities are calling targeted attacks. The incidents, which occurred overnight on June 14, 2025, have left the Minnesota political community reeling and prompted a statewide manhunt for the suspect, who reportedly impersonated a police officer. This breaking news today has sparked widespread concern about the safety of public officials and heightened tensions in the Minneapolis metropolitan area.
The Targeted Shootings in Brooklyn Park and Champlin
The Brooklyn Park shooting and Champlin incidents unfolded in the early hours of June 14, 2025, shaking the suburbs north of Minneapolis. According to multiple sources, including KARE 11, KSTP, and FOX 9, a suspect dressed in black body armor over a blue shirt and blue pants, posing as a law enforcement officer, carried out the attacks. The suspect targeted the homes of Rep. Melissa Hortman and Senator John Hoffman, both prominent members of the DFL Minnesota (Democratic–Farmer–Labor Party).
The first shooting occurred at the residence of State Senator John Hoffman in Champlin, MN. Hoffman, who has served in the Minnesota Senate since 2013, was shot at least twice, while his wife, Yvette, sustained three gunshot wounds. A few miles south, near the Edinburgh Golf Course in Brooklyn Park, MN, a second shooting targeted Rep. Melissa Hortman, the former Speaker of the Minnesota House and current DFL Leader. Hortman and her husband, Mark, were also shot. Both lawmakers and their spouses were rushed to the hospital, with reports indicating they are in “grave condition,” though official updates on their status remain limited.
The Minneapolis shooting incidents prompted an immediate response from local law enforcement. The Brooklyn Park Police Department issued a shelter-in-place order for a three-mile radius around the Edinburgh Golf Course at 5:30 a.m., warning residents that the suspect is “armed and dangerous.” Authorities described the suspect as a white male with brown hair, urging the public not to approach him and to verify the identity of any officer by calling 911.
Who Is Melissa Hortman?
Melissa Hortman, a seasoned politician, has been a cornerstone of Minnesota Democrats since her election to the Minnesota House of Representatives in 2005. Representing District 34B in Brooklyn Park, Hortman has built a reputation as a dedicated advocate for clean energy, environmental policy, and progressive causes. She served as Speaker of the House from 2019 to January 2025, earning praise for her leadership in navigating complex legislative challenges. Currently, she holds the role of DFL Caucus Leader, guiding the DFL Minnesota agenda in the state legislature.
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Hortman lives in Brooklyn Park with her husband, Mark, and their two children. Her commitment to public service has made her a respected figure in Minnesota politics, known for her ability to bridge divides and champion policies that benefit her constituents. However, her recent vote to repeal free healthcare for undocumented immigrants sparked debate, with some speculating it may have contributed to the motive behind the attack, though no official motive has been confirmed.
Who Is John Hoffman?
Senator John Hoffman, representing Senate District 34 in Champlin, has been a Minnesota senator since 2013. A member of the DFL Minnesota, Hoffman is known for his work on education, healthcare, and economic development. He runs Hoffman Strategic Advisors, a consulting firm, and is deeply engaged in community initiatives in Champlin, MN. Hoffman, married to Yvette and father to one daughter, has been a vocal advocate for policies that support working families and vulnerable populations. Like Hortman, Hoffman recently broke ranks with his party, joining Republicans in a vote that drew attention, though its relevance to the shootings remains speculative.
Official Response and Ongoing Investigation
Minnesota Governor Tim Walz swiftly responded to the Minnesota lawmakers shot by activating the State Emergency Operations Center, pledging the “full resources of the State of Minnesota” to local law enforcement in Brooklyn Park and Champlin. In a statement posted on X, Walz expressed solidarity with the affected communities and promised updates as the situation develops.
The Brooklyn Park shooting and Champlin incidents have drawn national attention, with U.S. House Speaker Hakeem Jeffries calling the attacks “deeply disturbing.” Minnesota Senator Amy Klobuchar also weighed in, noting the shelter-in-place order around the Edinburgh Golf Course and urging residents to stay vigilant.
Local media outlets, including KARE 11 News, Star Tribune, and KSTP, have been closely covering the Minneapolis news, providing real-time updates on the manhunt and the condition of the victims. FOX 9 reported that no suspect is in custody, and police helicopters are circling the Brooklyn Park area as the search intensifies.
Mounds View Mayor Zach Lindstrom confirmed the shootings, expressing prayers for the Hortman and Hoffman families. He also issued a warning to residents planning to participate in the “No Kings” protests against President Donald Trump’s policies, scheduled across the U.S., including Minneapolis, on June 14, 2025. The protests, combined with the shootings, have heightened security concerns in the region.
Community Impact and Safety Concerns
The shelter-in-place order has disrupted daily life for residents within a three-mile radius of the Edinburgh Golf Course in Brooklyn Park, MN. Schools, businesses, and community centers in the area have been advised to remain on lockdown, and residents are urged to stay indoors until the suspect is apprehended. The Brooklyn Park Police Department has emphasized the importance of verifying the identity of anyone claiming to be a law enforcement officer, advising residents to call 911 before opening their doors.
The shootings have raised broader questions about the safety of public officials in an increasingly polarized political climate. The fact that the suspect impersonated a police officer has sparked discussions about the vulnerabilities of elected officials and the need for enhanced security measures. The Minnesota lawmakers targeted in these attacks are both prominent figures in the DFL Minnesota, leading to speculation about political motivations, though authorities have not yet confirmed a motive.
Melissa Hortman’s Legislative Legacy
Rep. Melissa Hortman has been a trailblazer in Minnesota politics. Born and raised in the state, she graduated from Boston University and earned a law degree from the University of Minnesota. Her political career began in 2004 when she ran for the Minnesota House, winning her seat in District 34B. Over the years, Hortman has championed progressive causes, including renewable energy, affordable healthcare, and education reform. Her tenure as Speaker of the House was marked by efforts to pass climate legislation and expand access to early childhood education.
Hortman’s leadership style is often described as pragmatic yet principled. She has navigated contentious legislative sessions, balancing the needs of her Brooklyn Park constituents with the broader goals of the DFL Minnesota. Her recent vote to repeal free healthcare for undocumented immigrants, however, drew criticism from some within her party, highlighting the complexities of her role as a leader in a diverse state.
John Hoffman’s Contributions to Minnesota
Senator John Hoffman has similarly left a significant mark on Minnesota politics. Elected in 2012, Hoffman represents Senate District 34, which includes Champlin and parts of Coon Rapids. His background in education and consulting has informed his legislative priorities, which include improving public schools, expanding mental health resources, and supporting small businesses. Hoffman’s ability to work across party lines has earned him respect, though his recent vote with Republicans on a controversial issue stirred debate.
Hoffman’s personal life has also shaped his public service. As a father and husband, he has advocated for policies that strengthen families and communities. His consulting firm, Hoffman Strategic Advisors, focuses on helping organizations navigate complex policy landscapes, reflecting his deep understanding of Minnesota governance.
The Broader Context: Political Violence in America
The Minnesota shooting targeting Hortman and Hoffman is part of a troubling trend of political violence in the United States. Recent years have seen an increase in threats against elected officials, fueled by partisan divisions and inflammatory rhetoric. The fact that the suspect impersonated a police officer adds a layer of complexity, raising concerns about the misuse of authority and the challenges of ensuring public safety.
The Minneapolis metropolitan area, already a focal point for political and social activism, now faces heightened scrutiny. The “No Kings” protests planned for June 14, 2025, were intended to address concerns about executive overreach, but the shootings have shifted the focus to the safety of public officials. Community leaders are calling for calm and unity, urging residents to avoid speculation and support law enforcement efforts.
What Happens Next?
As the manhunt continues, Brooklyn Park and Champlin remain on edge. The Brooklyn Park Police Department and Minnesota State Patrol are coordinating with federal authorities to track down the suspect. Governor Walz has promised a press conference to provide further updates, and local media outlets like Star Tribune and KARE 11 are expected to cover the developments closely.
The condition of Rep. Melissa Hortman, Senator John Hoffman, and their spouses remains a top concern. Hospitals in the Minneapolis area are under increased security, and the DFL Minnesota has issued a statement expressing support for the families and calling for justice.
Community and National Reactions
The Minnesota lawmakers shot have prompted an outpouring of support from colleagues and constituents. Minnesota House Speaker Lisa Demuth (R-Cold Spring) described the attacks as an “evil act,” while community leaders in Brooklyn Park and Champlin have organized vigils to show solidarity. On social media, posts on X reflect a mix of shock, anger, and prayers for recovery, with some users speculating about the political implications of the shootings.
Nationally, the incident has reignited debates about gun violence, political polarization, and the safety of elected officials. The US news cycle has been dominated by coverage of the Minnesota senators shot, with outlets like FOX 9 and Star Tribune providing in-depth reporting. The fact that both Hortman and Hoffman are Democratic lawmakers shot has led to calls for bipartisan efforts to address political violence.
Conclusion
The targeted shootings of Rep. Melissa Hortman and Senator John Hoffman in Brooklyn Park and Champlin have sent shockwaves through Minnesota and beyond. As the shelter-in-place order remains in effect and the manhunt intensifies, the state grapples with the implications of this unprecedented attack. The resilience of the Minnesota Democrats and the broader community will be tested in the days ahead, but the commitment to justice and public safety remains unwavering.
This Minnesota news story is still developing, and residents are encouraged to stay informed through trusted sources like KARE 11, KSTP, Star Tribune, and FOX 9. The safety of Minnesota lawmakers and their families is paramount, and the nation watches closely as Minneapolis navigates this crisis.
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Meta Description: On June 14, 2025, Minnesota lawmakers Rep. Melissa Hortman and Senator John Hoffman were shot in their homes in Brooklyn Park and Champlin. A suspect posing as a police officer remains at large, prompting a shelter-in-place order. Stay updated on this breaking news.
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FAQs
Q: What happened to Melissa Hortman and John Hoffman?
A: On June 14, 2025, Rep. Melissa Hortman and Senator John Hoffman, along with their spouses, were shot in their homes in Brooklyn Park and Champlin, respectively, by a suspect impersonating a police officer. Both are in grave condition, and a manhunt is underway.
Q: Where did the shootings take place?
A: The shootings occurred at the residences of Melissa Hortman in Brooklyn Park, near the Edinburgh Golf Course, and John Hoffman in Champlin, MN, approximately eight miles apart.
Q: What is the current status of the suspect?
A: The suspect, described as a white male with brown hair wearing black body armor, is still at large and considered armed and dangerous. A shelter-in-place order is in effect around the Edinburgh Golf Course in Brooklyn Park.
Q: How has the community responded?
A: Local leaders, including Mounds View Mayor Zach Lindstrom, have expressed support for the Hortman and Hoffman families. Vigils are being organized, and Governor Tim Walz has activated the State Emergency Operations Center to assist law enforcement.
Q: Are there updates on the victims’ conditions?
A: As of now, Rep. Melissa Hortman and Senator John Hoffman, along with their spouses, are in grave condition. Official updates are pending, and the public is urged to avoid speculation.
Reference:
- Minnesota House of Representatives – Melissa Hortman
- Minnesota Senate – John Hoffman
- KARE 11 News
- Star Tribune
- FOX 9 Minneapolis-St. Paul
- KSTP 5 Eyewitness News
