Two elected officials in Minnesota, Senator John Hoffman and Representative Melissa Hortman, were shot overnight in what officials describe as a targeted attack. Both incidents occurred at the lawmakers' respective homes in the Minneapolis suburbs of Champlin and Brooklyn Park.

Local authorities say the shootings happened in the early hours of Saturday. A suspect is believed to have impersonated a police officer to gain access. The conditions of the lawmakers and their spouses, who were also reportedly injured, are currently unknown.

Suspect posed as officer

According to Brooklyn Park Police, the suspect is described as a white man with brown hair, wearing black body armour over a blue shirt and trousers. He may be impersonating law enforcement and is considered armed and dangerous.

In response, the police department issued a shelter-in-place order at 5:30 a.m. for residents within a 3-mile radius of the Edinburgh Golf Course. People in the area have been urged not to open their doors unless two officers are present or unless they confirm identities through 911.

Authorities are focusing their operations around Windsor Terrace North and 109th Place in Champlin, both of which are active scenes. The Hennepin County Sheriff's Office has confirmed that an investigation is underway, with Brooklyn Park Police as the lead agency.

Governor and leaders respond

Minnesota Governor Tim Walz confirmed the attacks in a statement posted Saturday morning:

“I’ve been briefed this morning on an ongoing situation involving targeted shootings in Champlin and Brooklyn Park. The Minnesota Department of Public Safety and local law enforcement are on the scene. We will share more information soon.”

The governor has activated the State Emergency Operations Center. His spokesperson, Teddy Tschann, said a cross-jurisdictional Joint Information Center has also been established.

US Senator Amy Klobuchar of Minnesota also reacted to the incident, identifying the lawmakers and expressing concern:

“This is a stunning act of violence. I’m thankful for all the law enforcement who are responding in real time. My prayers are with the Hortman and Hoffman families. Both legislators are close friends and devoted to their families and public service.”

Heightened concern over political safety

The incidents come amid growing concern over politically motivated violence in the United States. A University of Chicago survey has noted a rise in political threats, although most Americans remain opposed to such actions.

Another official wrote on social media, “I’m just learning of the events that took place last night due to getting a safety alert for elected officials. I never thought we'd be here. My prayers are with the Hortman and Hoffman families. I hope everyone comes out of this ok. I cannot emphasise enough that this is not ok. Any type of violence against elected officials is not ok. Any type of violence against other people is not ok.”

The statement continued with a warning to those participating in public protests:

“My understanding is that it's someone cos-playing as an officer and they haven't been caught. For those going out to protest today, please do it safely and if something looks off, say something. We do not need anyone else to get hurt.”

Police have not yet confirmed a motive or the current location of the suspect. The investigation remains active with support from state and federal agencies.

Officials are expected to release more details during a scheduled press briefing later today. Until then, residents in the affected areas have been advised to remain indoors and report any suspicious activity to emergency services.