Fact Check: "Senator John Hoffman and his wife, Yvette, were shot multiple times at their home in Champlin, Minnesota, on October 21, 2023, and are recovering after surgery."
What We Know
On October 21, 2023, Minnesota State Senator John Hoffman and his wife, Yvette, were shot multiple times at their home in Champlin, Minnesota. This incident occurred in the context of a series of politically motivated shootings that also involved State Representative Melissa Hortman and her husband, who were shot and killed in a separate attack in Brooklyn Park, approximately eight miles away from Hoffman's residence (CBS News, ABC News). Governor Tim Walz described the shootings as an "act of targeted political violence" and expressed cautious optimism regarding Hoffman's recovery, stating, "We are cautiously optimistic they will survive this assassination attempt" (ABC News, CBS News).
Both Hoffman and his wife underwent surgery following the incident, although specific details regarding their conditions have not been fully disclosed (Hindustan Times). The authorities have launched a manhunt for the shooter, who is believed to have impersonated law enforcement during the attacks (Fox 9, WEAU).
Analysis
The claim that Senator John Hoffman and Yvette were shot multiple times and are recovering after surgery is corroborated by multiple reliable news sources. Reports from ABC News and CBS News provide consistent details about the shooting incident, the identities of the victims, and the political context surrounding the violence. The statements from Governor Walz, a credible source given his position, further validate the claim, as he provided updates on the condition of the victims and characterized the event as politically motivated.
The sources used in this fact-check are reputable news organizations, including CBS News and ABC News, which are known for their journalistic integrity and fact-checking standards. The information is also supported by statements from local officials, including the governor and police, which adds to the credibility of the reports.
While the situation is still developing, and further updates may provide additional context or details, the initial reports are consistent and reliable. The emphasis on the targeted nature of the violence and the official responses from law enforcement and political leaders underscore the seriousness of the incident.
Conclusion
Verdict: True
The claim that Senator John Hoffman and his wife, Yvette, were shot multiple times at their home in Champlin, Minnesota, on October 21, 2023, and that they are recovering after surgery is accurate. This conclusion is based on multiple credible sources reporting the same facts and the official statements from relevant authorities.
Sources
- 2 Minnesota lawmakers shot in apparent 'targeted' incident
- Minnesota lawmakers John Hoffman, Melissa Hortman ...
- Who is John Hoffman? All on his wife Yvette and daughter ...
- Minnesota lawmaker shootings: Legislators targeted ...
- 2 Minnesota lawmakers were shot in their homes by man ...
- A Minnesota mayor says two state lawmakers were shot in ...
- 2 Minnesota state lawmakers shot in their homes early ...