Tragic Assassination of Minnesota Leader Melissa Hortman – June 14, 2025 Update
June 14, 2025
Who was Melissa Hortman? Melissa Anne Hortman (May 27, 1970 – June 14, 2025) was a prominent Minnesota Democratic–Farmer–Labor (DFL) politician, attorney, and elected official since 2005. She served as Speaker of the Minnesota House (2019–2025) and briefly as DFL Caucus Leader in 2025. Known for championing progressive policies—such as abortion rights, paid family leave, environmental protection, and gender‑affirming care—she held a JD from University of Minnesota and an MPA from Harvard.
Tentative timeline of June 14, 2025 shootings: At ~2 a.m. CDT, a shooter posing as a police officer invaded Senator John Hoffman’s home in Champlin, wounding him and his wife. About 3:35 a.m., the suspect attacked Hortman and her husband Mark in Brooklyn Park, killing both. A shootout with officers occurred; the suspect escaped wearing a disguise.
Suspect & motive: Authorities named 57‑year‑old Vance Luther Boelter as the assailant. Police found in his vehicle a “manifesto” listing Democratic lawmakers and fliers from the “No Kings” group. Governor Tim Walz labeled it a “targeted political assassination” and activated emergency protocols. A statewide manhunt with FBI support is ongoing; authorities warn that Boelter may still be armed.
Wider impact: National and state leaders—including Senators Amy Klobuchar and Governor Walz—condemned the violence, lowered flags, and called for unity. The tragedy halted political rallies across Minnesota amid growing concerns over escalating political violence.
In brief: Melissa Hortman, 55, and her husband Mark, 58, were assassinated in their home in a premeditated attack. This shocking event underscores rising political extremism in the U.S. On June 14, 2025, Minnesota—and the nation—mourned the loss of a compassionate public servant.
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