Additional Coverage:
- Minnesota lawmaker shot 9 times at his home in ‘targeted’ attack is in a critical condition (nbcnews.com)
Champlin, MN—State Senator John Hoffman and his wife, Yvette, remain hospitalized but are in stable condition following a horrific attack in their home last week. In a statement released Thursday, the couple shared chilling details of the early morning assault that left them with multiple gunshot wounds and claimed the lives of former House Speaker Melissa Hortman and her husband, Mark.
According to the Hoffmans, they were awakened around 2:00 a.m. by loud pounding and someone claiming to be a police officer. When they opened the door, the suspect, later identified as Vance Boelter, opened fire.
Senator Hoffman lunged at the gunman, absorbing nine bullets. Yvette Hoffman then attempted to close the door, getting shot eight times in the process.
Their adult daughter, Hope, bravely secured the door and called 911, an act her parents credit with potentially preventing further violence.
The Hoffmans expressed their gratitude for the medical professionals treating them, law enforcement who apprehended Boelter after a statewide manhunt, and the community support they’ve received, including a GoFundMe campaign that has raised nearly $200,000 for medical and security expenses. They also shared their grief over the loss of the Hortmans, noting a close family connection.
The attack, which Governor Tim Walz has labeled “targeted political violence,” has shaken the state. Notebooks found in Boelter’s vehicle contained the names of over 45 elected officials.
While acknowledging the inherent risks of public service, the Hoffmans expressed concern over the escalating dangers facing public figures simply for their beliefs and stances. They are currently reflecting on these risks as they continue their recovery.