Senator John Hoffman and Representative Melissa Hortman, along with their spouses, were shot in targeted overnight shootings in Champlin and Brooklyn Park; authorities warn of armed suspect impersonating police as shelter-in-place orders remain in effect.
In a shocking and unfolding situation, Minnesota State Senator John Hoffman and Representative Melissa Hortman, along with their spouses, were shot overnight in separate but related shootings in Champlin and Brooklyn Park, FOX 9’s Karen Scullin reports. The condition of the lawmakers remains unknown at this time. Authorities have issued a shelter-in-place alert and are actively searching for a suspect believed to be impersonating law enforcement and considered armed and dangerous.
What We Know So Far
At 5:30 a.m. Saturday, the Brooklyn Park Police Department issued a shelter-in-place alert for a three-mile radius around the Edinburgh Golf Course, following multiple targeted shootings. Police have confirmed the suspect is armed, described as a white male with brown hair, wearing black body armor over a blue shirt and pants, and is potentially posing as a law enforcement officer.
Residents have been urgently warned not to approach the suspect and not to open the door to individuals claiming to be officers unless two officers are present. If unsure, residents are instructed to call 911 to verify the identity of anyone at their door.
Active Scenes in Two Cities
Law enforcement has confirmed active investigations at multiple sites:
- Windsor Terrace North, located within the shelter-in-place zone in Brooklyn Park (approx. 2.5 miles from the golf course)
- 109th Place in Champlin, approximately 7 miles away, where another scene is unfolding
The Hennepin County Sheriff’s Office confirmed it is supporting the investigation, with Brooklyn Park Police leading the operation.
Victims: Elected Leaders and Their Families
- Rep. Melissa Hortman, a Democrat representing District 34B from Brooklyn Park
- Sen. John Hoffman, a Democrat representing Senate District 34 from Champlin
Both officials and their spouses were reportedly shot during the coordinated attacks. No formal health update has been provided as of now.
Officials Respond to the Crisis
Minnesota Governor Tim Walz acknowledged the gravity of the situation, posting on social media:
“I’ve been briefed this morning on an ongoing situation involving targeted shootings in Champlin and Brooklyn Park. The Minnesota Department of Public Safety and local law enforcement are on the scene. We will share more information soon.”
Mounds View Mayor Zach Lindstrom, reacting to a statewide alert sent to elected officials, expressed both concern and condemnation:
“My prayers are with the Hortman and Hoffman families… This is not OK. Any violence against elected officials—or anyone—is not OK.”
“My understanding is that it’s someone cos-playing as an officer and they haven’t been caught… For those protesting today, please stay alert and safe.”
Ongoing Threat & Public Safety
Authorities are treating the suspect as highly dangerous. The possibility that the individual is impersonating a police officer has raised serious public safety concerns.
With tensions high and an active manhunt underway, residents across the Twin Cities region are being urged to remain indoors, comply with safety directives, and report suspicious activity.
Summary
This unprecedented act of targeted violence against sitting lawmakers has stunned Minnesota and prompted a massive law enforcement response. With multiple active scenes, a suspect still at large, and the well-being of the victims uncertain, the situation remains fluid and deeply alarming.