Minnesota State Senator John Hoffman, who was shot nine times in a politically motivated attack last month, has been released from intensive care and transferred to a rehabilitation facility, according to a family statement shared with multiple news outlets on July 7.
The 59-year-old Democrat, who represents a district northwest of Minneapolis, sustained multiple gunshot wounds during a violent assault on June 14 that also left his wife, Yvette, seriously injured. The alleged attacker, identified by law enforcement as 57-year-old Vance Boelter, is accused of carrying out what prosecutors have called a “political assassination” targeting Minnesota lawmakers.
Hoffman’s family released a photo showing him smiling and giving a thumbs-up as he stood with a suitcase in front of a hospital room. Despite his progress, they said, “John has been moved to a rehab facility, but still has a long road to recovery ahead.”
USA TODAY reached out to the senator’s spokesperson for further comment on July 8 but did not receive an immediate response.
A Night of Terror: What Happened on June 14?
The pre-dawn hours of June 14 marked one of the most shocking political violence incidents in Minnesota’s recent history. According to a federal affidavit, Boelter posed as a law enforcement officer to gain access to the homes of elected officials in the Minneapolis area.
At approximately 2 a.m., Boelter approached the Hoffmans’ residence in Champlin, about 20 miles northwest of Minneapolis, in a black SUV modified to look like a police squad car. The vehicle was equipped with emergency lights and a fake license plate. Dressed in a tactical vest and wearing a full head-covering flesh-colored mask, Boelter knocked on the door, shouting, “This is the police. Open the door.”
Video surveillance footage captured him deceiving the Hoffmans by claiming he was responding to a reported shooting. Suspicion grew when Yvette Hoffman recognized the mask, prompting one or both of the Hoffmans to challenge his identity. Boelter then declared, “This is a robbery,” and opened fire, shooting Senator Hoffman multiple times before turning the gun on Yvette.
Their adult daughter dialed 911 at 2:06 a.m., reporting that both her parents had been shot by a masked intruder.
Other Victims: A Deadly Escalation
Boelter didn’t stop at the Hoffmans’ home. Authorities say he had compiled a list of state lawmakers, most of them Democrats, and attempted to access the homes of at least two other officials that night. After failing to contact them, he proceeded to the residence of Minnesota State Representative Melissa Hortman and her husband, Mark.
There, he fatally shot both individuals and critically wounded their family dog.
The attacks have shaken the Minnesota political community and prompted calls for improved security measures for public officials.
The Suspect: Targeted, Premeditated, and Armed
Court documents and statements from investigators paint a picture of meticulous planning. Boelter reportedly spent weeks researching the locations and routines of state lawmakers. He purchased weapons, disguises, and even altered his vehicle to imitate a police car.
He was apprehended on June 15 after a manhunt and remains in custody without bail. He faces both state and federal charges, including two counts of murder, multiple counts of attempted murder, and stalking. Federal authorities have said the charges could lead to the death penalty — a rare possibility in Minnesota, which abolished capital punishment in 1911. However, the federal murder statute allows for such a sentence.
Reactions and Political Fallout
Minnesota Governor Tim Walz condemned the attacks as “politically motivated assassination attempts.” The incident has sparked a national outcry, with leaders across the political spectrum denouncing the violence and urging greater protection for public servants.
“This wasn’t just a random act of violence — it was a direct assault on democracy,” said Governor Walz. “We cannot let this kind of intimidation silence our elected officials.”
Security measures at the Minnesota State Capitol and for lawmakers’ private residences have since been reviewed and tightened.
What’s Next?
Senator Hoffman’s release from intensive care marks a significant step in what is expected to be a lengthy recovery process, both physically and emotionally. His wife remains under medical care, and updates on her condition have not yet been disclosed.
As for Boelter, his next court appearance will likely provide further insight into the federal case and the possibility of capital charges.
In the wake of this tragedy, Minnesota’s legislative community remains united in grief, support, and resolve.
User-Intent Summary:
What happened? Senator John Hoffman and his wife were shot in their home by a man impersonating a police officer.
Who was responsible? Vance Boelter, 57, who allegedly targeted Democratic lawmakers.
Why does it matter? Authorities are treating the attack as a politically motivated assassination, sparking national concern about threats to public officials.
What’s next? Boelter faces serious federal and state charges. Senator Hoffman is in rehabilitation but faces a long recovery journey.
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