Fact Check: "Democratic former House Speaker Melissa Hortman and her husband, Mark, were shot and killed in their Brooklyn Park home on June 14, 2025."
What We Know
On June 14, 2025, former Minnesota House Speaker Melissa Hortman and her husband, Mark, were tragically shot and killed in their home in Brooklyn Park, Minnesota. This incident was confirmed by Minnesota Governor Tim Walz during a news conference, where he expressed his sorrow over the loss of a "great leader" and a "dearest friend" (source). The attack was described as "targeted political violence," and it was reported that a man impersonating a police officer was responsible for the shootings (source).
In addition to the Hortmans, State Senator John Hoffman and his wife were also shot in a related attack but survived their injuries (source). The authorities have since launched a manhunt for the suspect, identified as Vance Boelter, who was believed to have targeted these politicians due to their roles in public service (source).
Hortman had a long and impactful career in politics, serving as a legislator for nearly 20 years and as the speaker of the Minnesota House from 2019 to 2025. She was known for her leadership on various progressive issues, including abortion rights and paid family leave (source).
Analysis
The claim that Melissa Hortman and her husband were shot and killed is corroborated by multiple reputable sources, including major news outlets like the New York Times, Reuters, and the Associated Press. These outlets reported the events surrounding the shooting, including the context of political violence and the ongoing investigation into the suspect (source, source, source).
The credibility of these sources is high, as they are established news organizations with a history of accurate reporting. The New York Times and Reuters, in particular, have rigorous editorial standards and are considered reliable for political news. The statements from Governor Walz and other political figures further validate the tragic nature of the event and its implications for political safety in the United States.
The description of the attack as politically motivated is significant, as it highlights growing concerns about the safety of public officials amidst increasing political polarization. The presence of a manifesto found with the suspect that listed other politicians raises alarms about the potential for further violence against elected officials (source).
Conclusion
Verdict: True
The claim that Democratic former House Speaker Melissa Hortman and her husband, Mark, were shot and killed in their Brooklyn Park home on June 14, 2025, is true. This assertion is supported by multiple credible news sources that reported on the incident, confirming the tragic loss of life and the context of political violence surrounding the event.
Sources
- Speaker Emerita Melissa Hortman, husband killed in attack
- Who Are Melissa Hortman and John Hoffman, the Minnesota Lawmakers Who ...
- Minnesota lawmaker killed on Saturday served with ...
- Photos show police searching for man suspected of ...
- Manhunt after two Minnesota state politicians targeted ...
- Rep. Melissa Hortman, her husband killed; Sen. John Hoffman, his wife ...
- Minnesota Rep. Hortman and husband killed, Sen. ...
- Rep. Melissa Hortman killed, Sen. John Hoffman shot in 'targeted shootings'
