The shocking question of who killed Melissa Hortman continues to dominate Minnesota politics. On June 14, 2025, former Minnesota House Speaker Melissa Hortman and her husband, Mark, were killed in a politically motivated attack at their Brooklyn Park home. Months later, the suspect remains in custody, court proceedings are underway, and state leadership has shifted with Representative Zack Stephenson stepping into a new role following the tragedy.
The Night of the Attack
In the early hours of June 14, a man dressed as a police officer appeared at the Hortman residence. Neighbors noticed a vehicle resembling a squad car parked outside before gunfire rang out. When officers arrived, they found Melissa and Mark Hortman fatally shot inside their home. Their family dog, Gilbert, was also killed.
The gunman fled but was later identified as 57-year-old Vance Luther Boelter. After an intense manhunt, Boelter was captured and taken into custody. His arrest ended one of Minnesota’s largest statewide searches in recent history.
The Suspect and Charges
Authorities confirmed the killings were politically motivated. Boelter faces multiple state and federal charges, including:
- First-degree premeditated murder for the deaths of Melissa and Mark Hortman
- Attempted murder for the attack on State Senator John Hoffman and his wife earlier that night
- Impersonating a police officer
- Animal cruelty for killing the Hortmans’ dog
Federal prosecutors have also indicted him on stalking and firearms charges. If convicted, he faces life in prison without the possibility of parole.
Community and Political Response
The murders left Minnesota in mourning and raised alarm nationwide. Leaders condemned the act as a direct assault on democracy. Governor Tim Walz described it as “a politically motivated assassination,” while citizens organized vigils, memorials, and tributes across the state.
Melissa and Mark, along with their dog Gilbert, were honored in a historic ceremony at the Minnesota Capitol. Melissa became the first woman in state history to lie in state there, underscoring the significance of her contributions and leadership. Thousands gathered to pay respects and celebrate the couple’s legacy.
Melissa Hortman’s Legacy
Melissa Hortman, 55, served in the Minnesota House since 2005 and became Speaker in 2019. She was widely recognized for championing reproductive rights, environmental protection, renewable energy expansion, and justice reform. Beyond her legislative work, she was remembered as a mentor, advocate, and dedicated mother who inspired those around her.
Her husband, Mark, was remembered as a strong community supporter and family man. Their partnership left a lasting mark not only on politics but also on the lives of those closest to them.
Zack Stephenson’s Leadership Role
Following Melissa Hortman’s death, Minnesota House Democrats faced the difficult task of reorganizing leadership. Representative Zack Stephenson was chosen to lead the House DFL caucus, stepping into a role shaped for years by Hortman’s vision.
Stephenson has acknowledged the deep emotional impact of taking on this responsibility after the loss of a close colleague. He has pledged to honor Hortman’s legacy by continuing her commitment to fairness, bipartisanship, and policies aimed at protecting Minnesota families. His leadership is now central to guiding the caucus through a period of mourning and political transition.
Special Election Ahead
A special election has been scheduled to fill Hortman’s vacant legislative seat. Voters in District 34B will cast ballots in September 2025. The race is expected to draw high attention, as it symbolizes both the community’s grief and its determination to move forward.
- Date of attack: June 14, 2025
- Victims: Melissa Hortman, Mark Hortman, and their dog Gilbert
- Suspect: Vance Luther Boelter, charged with multiple counts of murder and attempted murder
- Surviving victims: State Senator John Hoffman and his wife
- Political leadership: Representative Zack Stephenson selected as new House DFL leader
- Upcoming event: Special election in September 2025 for District 34B
Closing Thoughts
The answer to who killed Melissa Hortman is clear—Vance Luther Boelter carried out the deadly attack. Yet the larger story continues to unfold in courtrooms, political chambers, and communities across Minnesota. With Representative Zack Stephenson stepping into leadership, the state looks to carry forward Hortman’s legacy while seeking justice and healing.