Fact Check: "The shootings occurred at two locations approximately 8 miles apart in Champlin and Brooklyn Park, Minnesota."
What We Know
On June 14, 2025, two Minnesota lawmakers, State Rep. Melissa Hortman and State Sen. John Hoffman, were involved in separate shootings that occurred in Champlin and Brooklyn Park, respectively. According to multiple reports, these two locations are approximately 8 miles apart, just north of Minneapolis (ABC News, Yahoo News, USA Today). The shootings were described as "targeted" incidents, with authorities indicating that they may be connected and politically motivated (Times of India, USA Today).
Analysis
The claim that the shootings occurred at two locations approximately 8 miles apart is supported by credible sources. Both Yahoo News and USA Today explicitly state that the shooting locations in Champlin and Brooklyn Park are about 8 miles apart. Furthermore, the context provided by these sources indicates that the incidents are part of a concerning trend of violence against elected officials, as highlighted by Minnesota Governor Tim Walz (ABC News).
The reliability of the sources is generally high, as they include established news organizations like ABC News and USA Today, which are known for their journalistic standards. However, it is essential to note that the situation is still developing, and further details may emerge as investigations continue (Yahoo News, MPR News).
While some reports mention that the distance between the two locations could range from 10 to 20 miles (USA Today), the consensus among the most reliable sources is that the distance is indeed around 8 miles, which aligns with the claim being fact-checked.
Conclusion
Verdict: True
The claim that the shootings occurred at two locations approximately 8 miles apart in Champlin and Brooklyn Park, Minnesota, is accurate. This is substantiated by multiple credible news sources that report the distances and details surrounding the incidents.
Sources
- 2 Minnesota lawmakers shot in 'targeted' incident: Officials
- 2 Minnesota lawmakers shot in apparent 'targeted' incident
- Minnesota lawmakers John Hoffman, Melissa Hortman shot
- Authorities investigate 'targeted shootings' in Minnesota
- 2 Minnesota lawmakers shot in apparent 'targeted ...
- Shelter-in-place order issued in NW Twin Cities metro area ...
- Two Minnesota lawmakers shot in separate incidents ...
- Minnesota legislators targeted in shootings in Champlin ...