Authorities Investigate Writings Found in Vehicle Linked to Minnesota Shooting of Lawmakers

BROOKLYN PARK, Minn. -- Investigators have discovered writings in a vehicle believed to have been used by a suspect in the fatal shootings of two Minnesota lawmakers. The documents reportedly mention several officials, including the victims, former House Speaker Melissa Hortman and Senator John Hoffman.

Brooklyn Park Police Chief Mark Bruley confirmed that the writings were located during a search of a fake police vehicle, which had been outfitted to resemble a law enforcement car. The suspect is accused of targeting Hortman and Hoffman, both Democrats, in a violent incident that has sent shockwaves through the political community.

The tragedy unfolded early Saturday morning in Brooklyn Park, where Hortman and her partner were found shot to death in their residence. Meanwhile, Senator Hoffman's home in Champlin was also the scene of a violent attack, where he and his wife were shot multiple times. Authorities noted that both lawmakers were mentioned in the suspect's manifesto, prompting immediate security alerts for other officials.

"Upon searching the vehicle, we found a manifesto that contained the names of numerous lawmakers and officials," Chief Bruley stated. "We acted swiftly to notify the state and enhance security measures where necessary."

In the aftermath of the shootings, a massive law enforcement response was mobilized, with hundreds of officers and deputies deployed throughout the area. Tactical teams established checkpoints to search vehicles, ensuring that the suspect was apprehended as quickly as possible.

Governor Tim Walz condemned the violence, asserting that the attack was a deliberate targeting of public officials. "We must unite against all forms of political violence," he said during a press briefing. "Those responsible will face justice."

Senator Hoffman, who has served in the legislature since 2012, previously held a position as vice chair of the Anoka-Hennepin School Board, Minnesota's largest school district. He is a father to one daughter. At the time of her death, Hortman was a leading figure in the state legislature and had been in office since 2004, raising two children with her husband.

Authorities are conducting autopsies to confirm the cause of death for the victims, both of whom died from gunshot wounds. A "shelter in place" order was issued shortly after the incident, as police searched for the suspect, who is believed to have fled the scene after exchanging gunfire with law enforcement.

Public Safety Commissioner Bob Jacobson expressed concerns over the suspect's impersonation of law enforcement: "This individual exploited the trust that comes with wearing a badge, a betrayal that is deeply unsettling for those of us who serve in law enforcement."

According to Chief Bruley, the suspect was disguised in a uniform that closely resembled that of a police officer and was operating a vehicle that appeared to be an official squad car, complete with emergency lights.

In response to the violence, President Donald Trump announced that the FBI would be joining the investigation. He emphasized the need for thorough accountability for all involved in this act of violence.

Minnesota House Speaker Lisa Demuth, a Republican, described the incident as "evil" and expressed her heartbreak over the loss of the two lawmakers. She urged Minnesotans to pray for the victims and the law enforcement personnel working tirelessly to apprehend the suspect.

The incident has raised alarms about the increasing violence against political figures across the country. The national gun violence prevention organization, GIFFORDS, released a statement underscoring the severity of attacks on lawmakers and the imperative for leaders to denounce violent extremism and protect democratic institutions.

"An attack on lawmakers is an attack on American democracy itself," stated a representative from GIFFORDS. "It is crucial for leaders to denounce the violent extremism that threatens our nation."