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Flags across New York State will be lowered to half-staff today in honor of Minnesota State Representative Melissa Hortman and her husband, who were tragically killed in politically targeted shootings on Saturday (June 14). Governor Kathy Hochul announced the decision, emphasizing the importance of resolving political differences through civil means, such as voting, rather than violence.
The shootings also involved Minnesota State Senator John Hoffman and his wife, who were shot multiple times but are currently recovering. The suspect, Vance Boelter, was apprehended late Sunday night and is charged with two counts of murder in the second degree for the deaths of Representative Hortman and her husband, Mark Hortman. Boelter also faces two counts of attempted murder in the second degree for the attack on Senator Hoffman and his wife.
According to CNY Central, Boelter disguised himself as a police officer during the attacks and had a list of additional targets, including lawmakers in other states. Governor Hochul expressed her condolences, stating, "I join the State of Minnesota, family, and loved ones in mourning the horrific loss of Representative Melissa Hortman and Mark Hortman."