Fact Check: The break-in at Hortman's home feels like a second attack on the family.

Fact Check: "The break-in at Hortman's home feels like a second attack on the family."

What We Know

On June 17, 2025, Minnesota state Representative Melissa Hortman and her husband, Mark, were tragically shot and killed in their home in Brooklyn Park, Minnesota. This incident was described by authorities as a politically motivated attack by Vance Luther Boelter, who was later arrested and charged with their murders (ABC News, CNBC). Just three days later, on June 20, 2025, a break-in was reported at the same residence. Police stated that the plywood covering a broken rear window had been pried off, indicating forced entry. However, the family reported that they did not believe anything was missing from the home (ABC News, CBS News).

Analysis

The claim that the break-in feels like a second attack on the Hortman family is supported by the context surrounding the events. The break-in occurred shortly after the violent murder of the Hortmans, which was already a traumatic experience for the family and their community. The police's description of the break-in as a search by an unknown individual, coupled with the family's distress over the recent loss, reinforces the perception of this incident as an additional assault on the family’s sense of safety and security (ABC News, CNBC).

The reliability of the sources reporting these events is high, as they include reputable news organizations such as ABC News, CNBC, and CBS News, which have a history of accurate reporting on significant events. However, it is essential to note that the emotional language used in reporting can sometimes influence public perception. The phrase "second attack" may not be a legal term but rather reflects the emotional and psychological impact on the family and community (ABC News, Fox 9).

Conclusion

The claim that the break-in at Hortman's home feels like a second attack on the family is True. The timing and nature of the break-in, occurring shortly after a violent murder, contribute to a perception of ongoing victimization. This context, combined with the emotional toll on the family, supports the assertion that the break-in is perceived as a continuation of the trauma they have endured.

Sources

1. Break-in reported at home of slain Minnesota state Rep ... - ABC News
2. Minnesota Rep. Melissa Hortman's home broken into 3 days after her murder - CNBC
3. Police investigate break-in at home of slain Minnesota ... - CBS News
4. Break-in at Rep. Hortman's Brooklyn Park home days after fatal shooting - Fox 9
5. Break-in reported at Minnesota home of slain Rep. Melissa Hortman - NBC