Minnesota On Edge: Lawmakers Attacked in Targeted Shootings

Minnesota on Edge: Lawmakers Attacked in Targeted Shootings; Suspect Impersonating Law Enforcement Sought

MINNEAPOLIS, MN - A series of targeted shootings overnight in the northern suburbs of Minneapolis has left two state lawmakers and their spouses injured, prompting a widespread law enforcement response and a shelter-in-place order for parts of Brooklyn Park. Authorities are actively searching for an armed and dangerous suspect described as a white male with brown hair, dressed like law enforcement.

Sources close to the investigation indicate the attacks began around 2:00 AM on 109th Place North in Champlin, the residence of State Senator John Hoffman and his wife, Liv Hoffman. The couple was reportedly shot by two gunmen who then fled in what appeared to be a police vehicle. Initial reports from sources indicated Senator Hoffman's wife's first name as Liv, but it was later confirmed by additional sources that his wife's name is Yvette.

The assailants then allegedly proceeded to the home of State Representative Melissa Hortman and her spouse, located on a nearby street, where they were also shot.

In the wake of these incidents, law enforcement has been dispatched to the homes of all Minnesota state lawmakers. All Minnesota legislators have been advised to contact the Sergeant at Arms, reach out to their local police departments, and establish personal safety plans.

While the conditions of Senator Hoffman, Yvette Hoffman, Representative Hortman, and her spouse were initially unknown, sources have provided an encouraging update: Senator John Hoffman and Yvette Hoffman are out of surgery. This news, while speaking to the severity of their injuries, suggests they are alive, offering a glimmer of hope amidst the unfolding crisis.

Senator John Hoffman, a long-serving lawmaker, was first elected in 2012 after previously serving on the Anoka-Hennepin School Board and being active in the local DFL party.

The Brooklyn Park Police Department has issued an "extreme" emergency alert, a shelter-in-place order for a three-mile radius around the Edinburgh Golf Course. Residents in this area are urged to remain indoors. The alert explicitly warns: "Police are looking for a suspect in multiple targeted shootings who is armed and dangerous. Suspect is white male brown hair and dressed like law enforcement, do not approach and do not answer the door unless two officers approach together. Call 9-1-1 to verify officer identity."

At 9:30 AM, officials are expected to provide a press briefing, following the activation of the Governor's State Emergency Operation Center, which mobilizes all necessary law enforcement resources.

The attacks have cast a shadow over scheduled public events. Metro Transit has canceled festivities surrounding the launch of the "Beeline" ceremony, where Lieutenant Governor Peggy Flanagan was slated to speak. The Beeline itself remains operational, but the ceremonial events have been suspended due to public safety concerns. As of now, there has been no official word on whether the "No Kings" protest, scheduled for 11:00 AM today and set to feature Governor Tim Walz and Lieutenant Governor Flanagan, will proceed as planned.

Minnesota lawmakers are expressing their concern on social media. State Representative Kristen Robbins posted, "Praying for my colleagues and that these violent criminals are brought to justice soon. Political violence is never acceptable."

Minneapolis Mayor Jacob Frey confirmed he has been briefed on the "horrifying reports of targeted shootings in the north Metro suburbs" and stated the city is coordinating with partner law enforcement agencies. Representative Pete Stauber, who represents the Duluth area, called the situation "truly devastating."

This is a developing story, and MinneapoliMedia will continue to provide updates as more verifiable information becomes available.