2 days ago
BREAKING NEWS Frantic hunt for gunman after Democratic lawmakers shot at their homes in 'targeted attacks'
At least three people were shot early Saturday in what authorities believe were targeted attacks at the homes of Democratic lawmakers in Minnesota.
Minnesota State Senator John Hoffman and State Representative Melissa Hortman are thought to have been targeted by a gunman impersonating a police officer.
The first shooting occurred shortly after 2 am at Hoffman's residence in Champlin. A man and a woman were shot multiple times and their conditions are unknown, KSTP reported.
Hoffman has served in the Minnesota Senate since 2013.
The second incident took place eight miles south at a home in Brooklyn Park, reportedly belonging to Hortman, who has served in the position since January 2023, near the Edinburgh Golf Course.
One man was reportedly shot multiple times, however his condition is also unknown, The Sun reported.
Authorities believe the two incidents are connected and involve a suspect posing as law enforcement.
Governor Tim Walz has since addressed the situation on social media, condemning the 'targeted attacks,' and adding that he is activating the State Emergency Operations Center as police launch an urgent manhunt.
At least three people were shot early Saturday in what authorities believe were targeted attacks at the homes of Democratic lawmakers in Minnesota
'I've been briefed this morning on an ongoing situation involving targeted shootings in Champlin and Brooklyn Park,' Walz wrote on X.
'I've activated the State Emergency Operations Center. Local law enforcement in Champlin and Brooklyn Park have the full resources of the State of Minnesota behind them.
'We are monitoring the situation closely and will share more information soon,' the Governor wrote.
Police described the suspect as a white male with brown hair, wearing black body armor over a blue shirt and blue pants.
Brooklyn Park Police issued a shelter-in-place order around 5:30 am, later expanding it to a three-mile radius around the Edinburgh Golf Course.
Another emergency alert was issued around 7 am, advising residents to only open their doors if two officers are present and to call 911 to verify any officer's identity.
'Police are looking for a suspect in multiple targeted shootings who is armed and dangerous,' the alert stated. 'Suspect is white male, brown hair, wearing black body armor over a blue shirt and blue pants and may misrepresent himself as law enforcement.'
The Minnesota Bureau of Criminal Apprehension is assisting with the investigation.
Authorities have not confirmed whether the lawmakers were the intended targets or if the attacks were politically motivated.
