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Minnesota state representative Melissa Hortman and her husband were tragically shot dead on Saturday morning in what state governor Tim Walz described as a “politically motivated assassination”.
Hortman, a Democrat, and her husband were shot at their home in Brooklyn Park, a city north of Minneapolis, by a man dressed as a police officer, authorities said. The suspect escaped following a shootout with officers, and police are currently conducting a manhunt to apprehend him.
Governor Walz expressed his sorrow over the loss of his friend and colleague, Melissa Hortman, calling her “a formidable public servant, a fixture, and a giant in Minnesota”.
In light of the tragic events, police have advised against attending the “No Kings” protests scheduled for later today, as the suspect remains at large.
The protests are a response to what organizers perceive as a move towards authoritarianism and the militarization of democracy under President Donald Trump. They are planned in various cities and towns across the nation ahead of a military parade in Washington to commemorate the 250th anniversary of the US Army, coinciding with Trump’s 79th birthday.
In a separate incident, Democratic state senator John Hoffman and his wife were also victims of a shooting at their home earlier on Saturday morning. Governor Walz provided an update on their condition, stating that they are in hospital and showing signs of recovery.
Authorities confirmed that the gunman had masqueraded as a police officer during the attacks, exploiting the trust associated with law enforcement uniforms. As a result, heightened security measures have been implemented to protect public officials and individuals deemed at risk.
President Trump issued a statement condemning the violence, describing it as a targeted attack against state lawmakers. The FBI, along with Attorney General Pam Bondi, are actively investigating the situation and will prosecute those involved to the fullest extent of the law.
The tragic events in Minnesota serve as a stark reminder of the importance of upholding peace and security within our communities. Our thoughts and prayers go out to the families of the victims, and we stand united in denouncing such senseless acts of violence.
