MINNEAPOLIS — Minnesota State Senator John Hoffman, recovering from a harrowing shooting incident that left him in critical condition, has shared chilling details about the attack that also severely injured his wife. Both are presently hospitalized, with Hoffman enduring a tough recovery after being shot nine times while Yvette, who was hit eight times, is currently in stable condition.
In a statement released Thursday, the Hoffmans shed light on the events of June 14, when they were awakened by violent knocks at their front door around 2 a.m. They described hearing someone outside identify themselves as an officer, prompting them to open the door. However, chaos erupted as the gunman entered their home. The couple’s daughter, Hope, was also present and witnessed the chilling moment when her father confronted the assailant, who aimed directly at him.
As John Hoffman lunged at the gunman, Yvette bravely attempted to push him away and close the door. Unfortunately, she was also struck multiple times during the assault. Hope managed to lock the door and contact emergency services, urgently notifying 911 that a state senator had been shot in their residence.
The alleged attacker, Vance Boelter, was apprehended following an extensive two-day manhunt, described by officials as the largest in Minnesota’s history. This violent episode transpired on the same night that Democratic State Representative Melissa Hortman and her husband, Mark Hortman, were killed in their home, intensifying the sense of fear and urgency in the community.
Governor Tim Walz condemned the shootings as acts of targeted political violence, highlighting a concerning trend towards aggression against public figures. In their statement, the Hoffmans expressed gratitude to both medical personnel and law enforcement for their roles in saving their lives and securing the area.
The couple took a moment to mourn the tragic loss of the Hortmans, whom they knew personally, reminding the public of the ongoing dangers facing those in public service. “We are heartbroken to know that our friends Melissa and Mark Hortman were assassinated,” they stated, acknowledging the shared ties between their families.
In response to the shooting, the community at Fernbrook School, where Yvette is employed, launched a GoFundMe campaign to help cover the Hoffmans’ medical expenses and enhance their security. The support has been overwhelming, with contributions exceeding $200,000.
In a poignant call to action, the Hoffmans urged their community to foster respect for differing viewpoints. They acknowledged the sacrifices that come with public service, emphasizing the need for civility and safer discourse. “The future for our children depends on that,” they affirmed, ending their statement with a heartfelt plea for unity and healing.