A survivor of a violent attack that claimed the lives of two Minnesota lawmakers expressed profound gratitude for surviving after being shot a staggering 17 times alongside her husband. Yvette and John Hoffman were targeted at their home early Saturday morning, while State House Speaker Melissa Hortman and her husband, Mark, tragically lost their lives in the incident.
In a heartfelt statement, Yvette Hoffman shared their emotional turmoil following the Hortmans’ deaths, describing both she and her husband as “incredibly lucky to be alive.” She noted, “John is enduring many surgeries right now and is closer every hour to being out of the woods.” While John endured nine gunshot wounds, Yvette sustained eight. “We are gutted and devastated by the loss of Melissa and Mark. We have no words. There is never a place for this kind of political hate,” she added in her message, which was amplified by Minnesota Senator Amy Klobuchar via Instagram.
Ongoing manhunt for the shooter
Authorities are currently pursuing Vance Luther Boelter, the main suspect in the case, who allegedly disguised himself as a police officer during the attacks. After shooting the victims in their homes, Boelter fled on foot. In a recent development, law enforcement discovered an unoccupied vehicle associated with him in Sibley County, approximately 50 miles from the crime scene. Residents received alerts advising them to secure their homes and vehicles as the hunt for the suspect intensified.
Details surrounding the attack have emerged, revealing that Yvette reportedly shielded her daughter during the assault. Her daughter, Hope, who is in her 20s and was born with spina bifida, was mentioned by John in prior statements as a catalyst for his political engagement.
Political implications and community reactions
As the investigation unfolds, police have uncovered a target list containing names of various Minnesota Democratic politicians, including Governor Tim Walz and other prominent figures within the Democratic–Farmer–Labor Party. Klobuchar emphasized the politically motivated nature of the attack, stating, “Clearly, this is politically motivated.” The FBI has since added Boelter to its most-wanted list, offering a $50,000 reward for information leading to his capture.
The community is grappling with the shocking reality of a politically motivated assassination on their doorstep. Local residents have expressed their disbelief and sadness, describing the Hortmans as friendly neighbors in a typically quiet area. “What a big loss for Minnesota,” lamented one resident, highlighting the impact this tragedy has had on the local community.
As the investigation continues, the Hoffmans remain optimistic about John’s recovery while mourning the loss of their friends and grappling with the implications of such a violent act.