Minnesota Lawmakers Attacked, One Killed in Shocking Incident

Sat Oct 18 2025 18:45:21 GMT+0300 (Eastern European Summer Time)

A politically motivated assault in Minnesota left one lawmaker dead and another seriously injured, sparking widespread condemnation and a massive manhunt for the suspect.

The tragic attack targeting Minnesota lawmakers Melissa Hortman and John Hoffman has raised alarms across the nation, leading to a large-scale manhunt for suspect Vance Luther Boelter. As the investigation unfolds, political leaders condemn the violence and call for unity.

On Saturday, Minnesota experienced a shocking incident when two state lawmakers were attacked in their homes, resulting in the death of one and severe injuries to another. Governor Tim Walz labeled the assaults as a "politically motivated assassination" attempt, sending shockwaves through the community. The assailant, identified as Vance Luther Boelter, age 57, was apprehended after an extensive two-day manhunt, which authorities described as the "largest in the state's history." He was located hiding in the woods near Green Isle, Sibley County.

Law enforcement agencies worked tirelessly to locate Boelter, who stood accused of attacking State Representative Melissa Hortman and her husband, Mark, resulting in her death, and State Senator John Hoffman, who was seriously injured but survived. The attacks occurred in the early hours of Saturday in Brooklyn Park and Champlin, Minnesota. Reports indicate that police received calls at 2:00 AM and 3:35 AM regarding the incidents at Hoffman's and Hortman's residences, respectively.

President Donald Trump and Minnesota Senator Amy Klobuchar, among others, condemned the violence as an assault on democracy. Police are investigating Boelter's links to the victims and discovered a list of 70 potential targets, including prominent Democrats and organizations like Planned Parenthood, heightening concerns about potential motives.

Boelter, a former political appointee and security contractor, previously held several jobs, but his criminal record was limited to minor traffic violations. Investigators reviewed troubling messages he sent to friends indicating he anticipated a violent turn of events. His arrest was ultimately secured without resistance, leaving residents and lawmakers seeking reassurance in the wake of this violent episode.

Authorities emphasized the need for community safety and civility amid such divisive political climates and affirmed that Boelter acted alone, without any clear ideologically driven network. Governor Walz called for unity, urging residents to "find common ground" in the aftermath of the attacks, which have profoundly affected Minnesota's political landscape.