Additional Coverage:
- Family, friends, leaders pay final respects to slain Minnesota legislator and husband (abcnews.go.com)
Minneapolis Mourns Slain State Representative and Husband
Thousands gathered at the Basilica of St. Mary in Minneapolis on Saturday, June 28, 2025, to mourn the loss of Minnesota State Representative Melissa Hortman, her husband, Mark, and their dog, Gilbert.
The Hortmans were killed in their home on June 14 in a shooting that investigators believe was politically motivated. Dignitaries, including former President Joe Biden and former Vice President Kamala Harris, joined family, friends, and colleagues to honor the couple’s lives and legacy.
Governor Tim Walz delivered a moving eulogy, hailing Melissa Hortman as “the most consequential speaker in Minnesota history.” He emphasized the positive impact the couple had on the state, stating, “I know millions of Minnesotans have lived their lives better because of Melissa and Mark.” Walz also spoke directly to the Hortman children, Sophie and Colin, acknowledging their parents’ love and dedication.
Melissa Hortman’s career began with her election to state office in 2004. She steadily rose through the ranks, becoming minority leader in 2017 and speaker of the House in 2019.
Governor Walz praised her ability to connect with others, noting, “She saw the humanity in every single person she worked with.” He added that her primary goal was always “to get as much good done for as many people as possible.”
Mark Hortman, a program manager at nVent Electric, was remembered for his work in green electronics. The couple’s dog, Gilbert, who was injured in the attack and later euthanized, was also acknowledged during the service.
On Friday, June 27, the Hortmans lay in state at the Capitol, with Gilbert resting beside them. Melissa Hortman is the first woman in Minnesota history to lie in state.
The suspect, Vance Boelter, was apprehended the day after the Hortman murders and charged with their deaths. Boelter is also accused of shooting State Senator John Hoffman and his wife, Yvette, earlier that same night. While the Hoffmans survived the attack and are recovering, the incident underscores a concerning rise in political violence.
Former President Biden visited the Hoffmans in the hospital on Friday. A representative for Senator Hoffman relayed Yvette Hoffman’s positive update on her husband’s condition, noting his improving health and resilience.
Prosecutors allege that Boelter impersonated a police officer and wore a realistic latex mask during the attacks. A list of approximately 45 elected officials was reportedly discovered in Boelter’s vehicle.
Governor Walz addressed the increasing political tensions in the nation, urging Americans to reflect on their interactions and methods of political engagement. He encouraged the public to honor the Hortmans’ legacy not by focusing on the tragedy of their deaths, but by emulating their compassionate and dedicated approach to life and leadership.