Targeted Shootings at Homes of Minnesota Lawmakers Raise Safety Concerns

Authorities ramp up safety alerts after targeted attacks on Minnesota politicians, emphasizing public vigilance.

In a shocking incident early Saturday morning, the homes of two Minnesota state lawmakers were targeted in separate shootings, as reported by CBS News and other media outlets. The targeted homes belong to State Senator John Hoffman and former Minnesota House Speaker Melissa Hortman, both affiliated with the Democratic-Farmer-Labour (DFL) Party. These residences are located in Champlin and Brooklyn Park, adjacent cities situated close to Minneapolis.

Details surrounding the incident remain sparse, with reports indicating uncertainty regarding whether anyone was injured or shot at the residences. In response to the situation, Minnesota Governor Tim Walz confirmed that targeted shootings had taken place. The Brooklyn Park Police Department has issued a shelter-in-place advisory for a three-mile radius around Edinburgh Golf Course, advising residents to remain vigilant.

Local officials, including Mounds View Mayor Zach Lindstrom, have expressed concern for elected officials and reported a safety alert being circulated. Community members are advised to exercise caution, with warnings not to open their doors to police officers who are not accompanied by a partner. Mayor Lindstrom took to social media platform X to inform residents about a suspect allegedly impersonating an officer who is still at large.

Governor Walz also shared that authorities are closely monitoring the situation and have activated the State Emergency Operations Center to manage any ongoing threats or emergencies. The rise in gun violence across the U.S. continues to raise alarm, with this incident adding to the increasing number of threats faced by public officials.