The tragic question that still hangs heavy in Minnesota is who killed Melissa Hortman, the respected former House Speaker whose sudden assassination shocked not only her state but the entire country in June 2025. The answer is known—Vance Luther Boelter, a 57-year-old Minnesota man, was arrested and charged with carrying out the politically motivated killings. Yet while the manhunt is over, the trial is still to come, and the grief felt by her family, colleagues, and community has only deepened over time.
This article takes an in-depth look at the events of that horrific day, the investigation and arrest of Boelter, the ongoing court case, the reflections of colleagues like Rep. Zack Stephenson who have been thrust into leadership after her death, and the enduring legacy Hortman left behind.
The Morning of June 14, 2025
On what began as an ordinary summer morning, Minnesota was rocked by one of the darkest acts of political violence in its history. In the quiet suburb of Brooklyn Park, former House Speaker Melissa Hortman and her husband, Mark, were inside their home when danger arrived at their door.
The attacker—later identified as Vance Boelter—was disguised as a law enforcement officer. He knocked on the door and, after gaining access, fatally shot both Melissa and Mark.
Earlier that same morning, State Senator John Hoffman and his wife, Yvette, were also targeted at their Champlin home. Both were shot but survived, though with serious injuries. Their daughter, who was present during the attack, managed to escape physically unharmed but emotionally scarred.
The coordinated assaults stunned Minnesota. The fact that two lawmakers and their families were targeted within hours made clear that this was no random act of violence, but a deliberate, politically driven attack.
The Immediate Fallout and Manhunt
Within minutes of the killings, law enforcement launched what became the largest manhunt in Minnesota history. Hundreds of officers, along with federal agencies, were mobilized. Helicopters, drones, and tactical teams were deployed across the state.
The urgency of the search was heightened by fears that more lawmakers might be targeted. Security was tightened at the Minnesota State Capitol and the homes of several public officials.
Less than 36 hours later, on June 15, authorities located and arrested Boelter in Green Isle, Minnesota. He was taken into custody without further violence, ending the immediate threat but beginning a long legal process.
Who Killed Melissa Hortman? The Answer and the Charges
The direct answer to the question who killed Melissa Hortman is Vance Luther Boelter. Prosecutors have confirmed his sole responsibility for carrying out the shootings.
Boelter was indicted on multiple charges, including:
- First-degree murder for the deaths of Melissa and Mark Hortman
- Attempted murder of Senator John Hoffman and Yvette Hoffman
- Stalking public officials
- Firearms-related crimes
Given the severity of the crimes, federal prosecutors have not ruled out seeking the death penalty, making this one of the most serious cases Minnesota has ever faced.
Boelter entered a plea of not guilty, and his trial is expected to stretch into late 2026 or 2027 due to the complexity and gravity of the charges.
The Attacker’s Profile
Although details of Boelter’s background are still being pieced together, investigators have highlighted disturbing elements:
- He had expressed anti-government and extremist rhetoric in the past.
- He kept records and writings that indicated an obsession with political figures.
- In a bizarre handwritten letter sent to federal officials, Boelter made rambling and delusional claims about conspiracies involving elected leaders.
While prosecutors acknowledge his letter shows signs of paranoia and instability, they maintain there is no evidence supporting any of his wild claims. Instead, the evidence points to a premeditated, politically motivated assassination.
Melissa Hortman’s Legacy
The assassination did not just take away a prominent leader—it took away a woman who had shaped Minnesota politics for over two decades.
At the age of 55, Melissa Hortman had already built a reputation as one of the most consequential figures in Minnesota’s modern history. She served in the Minnesota House of Representatives for nearly 20 years and was elected as House Speaker in 2019, a role she held until 2025.
Her legislative priorities included:
- Environmental protections: championing clean energy and climate action
- Healthcare reforms: supporting medical research, including ALS funding
- Reproductive rights: defending women’s access to healthcare choices
- Education initiatives: investing in schools and student opportunities
Colleagues often described her as fierce in debate but warm in friendship. She was known for mentoring younger lawmakers and maintaining a sense of humor and humanity even during political battles.
Outside of politics, she was a devoted wife and mother, an avid gardener, and a host who loved gathering people at her home.
A Colleague Reflects: Zack Stephenson’s Painful Transition
The political aftermath of her assassination has been profound. The Minnesota Democratic–Farmer–Labor (DFL) Party needed a new leader in the House, and the responsibility fell to Rep. Zack Stephenson.
In a public reflection, Stephenson made clear how deeply personal this transition has been for him.
“I would give anything to not have this job and have Melissa Hortman back doing this job,” Stephenson said.
His words captured both the honor of stepping into leadership and the overwhelming grief of losing a mentor and friend. He acknowledged that Hortman’s shoes are impossible to fill, but promised to carry forward the values and vision she had championed.
Security Concerns and Political Climate
The assassination of Melissa Hortman raised urgent concerns about the safety of public officials, not only in Minnesota but across the country. Lawmakers at both the state and federal levels have since called for:
- Increased personal security for legislators
- Better threat assessment and monitoring of extremist activity
- Stronger protections for lawmakers’ families
The incident has also fueled a national conversation about the rise of political extremism and the risks faced by public servants.
Public Mourning and Tributes
In the days and weeks following the tragedy, thousands of Minnesotans came together to honor Hortman’s life. Vigils were held in Brooklyn Park, the State Capitol, and across the state.
At her funeral, Governor Tim Walz delivered an emotional eulogy, calling her “the most consequential speaker in Minnesota history.” Colleagues from both parties praised her sharp intellect, her courage, and her humanity.
Her death has been remembered not just as a political loss but as a profoundly personal tragedy for her community and her family.
Looking Ahead: The Trial and Minnesota’s Future
The trial of Vance Boelter will likely be one of the most closely followed cases in Minnesota history. With the possibility of the death penalty and the involvement of high-profile victims, every step of the proceedings will draw national attention.
For Minnesota politics, the immediate focus is on stability and healing. Rep. Zack Stephenson’s leadership of the DFL will shape the legislative agenda in the years ahead, but Hortman’s influence will continue to be felt in the values and priorities she championed.
Key Facts at a Glance
| Question | Answer |
|---|---|
| Who killed Melissa Hortman? | Vance Luther Boelter |
| Date of assassination | June 14, 2025 |
| Other victims | Mark Hortman (deceased), John & Yvette Hoffman (injured) |
| Suspect status | In custody, pleaded not guilty |
| Trial timeline | Expected in late 2026 or 2027 |
| Possible penalty | Federal death penalty |
| Political impact | Zack Stephenson now leads DFL after Hortman’s death |
Conclusion
The answer to the question who killed Melissa Hortman is clear: Vance Luther Boelter, now in federal custody and awaiting trial. But beyond the legal proceedings, the deeper story is about the loss of a leader, a mentor, and a friend.
Melissa Hortman’s assassination was not just an attack on an individual but a blow to democracy and public service. Yet her legacy—her values, her leadership, and the inspiration she gave to colleagues like Zack Stephenson—remains a guiding light for Minnesota’s future.
As the state moves forward, the memory of Melissa Hortman continues to remind us of the strength, sacrifice, and humanity that true public service requires.
What do you think Minnesota politics will look like in the years to come without Melissa Hortman’s leadership? Share your thoughts as this historic story continues to unfold.