Minnesota Lawmakers Targeted in Brazen Overnight Attack—Community Stunned as Suspect Impersonates Law Enforcement, Fires on Multiple Victims in Twin Cities Shooting Spree
MINNEAPOLIS–SAINT PAUL, MN — June 14, 2025
A shocking and violent series of events unfolded across the Minneapolis–Saint Paul metropolitan area early Saturday morning, leaving the entire state reeling from what officials are calling a politically motivated act of domestic terrorism. Law enforcement agencies have confirmed that multiple victims, including two elected Minnesota state lawmakers and their spouses, were shot at close range in their homes by an assailant disguised as a police officer.
According to initial reports, the suspect arrived at the residences wearing what appeared to be official law enforcement gear, complete with body armor and a badge, and gained entry by deceiving the occupants into believing he was a responding officer. Once inside, the suspect opened fire without warning.
The first home targeted was in the suburban neighborhood of Champlin, where a prominent state senator and their spouse were both shot. Emergency responders found them critically injured but alive. Both underwent emergency surgery and remained hospitalized in serious condition.
Less than an hour later, a second home was invaded in Brooklyn Park. Inside, authorities discovered the bodies of another state lawmaker and their spouse. Tragically, both had sustained multiple gunshot wounds and were pronounced dead at the scene.
The coordinated nature of the attacks—and the fact that both homes were connected to sitting lawmakers—has led officials to immediately classify the case as an act of political violence. Authorities have not released the names of the surviving victims but confirmed that the deceased were public servants with long-standing involvement in state politics and community advocacy.
Suspect Identified as Former State Appointee
Following an extensive manhunt and review of surveillance footage and digital evidence, authorities quickly identified the suspect as a 57-year-old former member of a Minnesota state workforce board. This individual had previously served in an appointed role under a past gubernatorial administration and reportedly harbored strong anti-government sentiments in recent years.
Court documents and investigative reports indicate the suspect had a long and troubled history, including recent social media activity expressing grievances about political institutions, perceived betrayal by former colleagues, and disillusionment with Minnesota’s legislative leadership. The suspect is believed to have meticulously planned the attack for weeks.
The weapon used in both shootings was legally obtained, but investigators are now examining how the suspect was able to acquire law enforcement-style gear and whether any accomplices played a role in facilitating the disguise.
State and Federal Response
Law enforcement agencies from multiple jurisdictions, including the Minnesota Bureau of Criminal Apprehension (BCA), the FBI, and local SWAT teams, have been involved in the investigation and manhunt. Early Saturday afternoon, officials confirmed that the suspect was apprehended following a standoff at a rural cabin in northern Minnesota. He was taken into custody without further violence.
Minnesota Governor Tim Walz addressed the state in a press conference just hours after the suspect’s arrest. Fighting back emotion, he confirmed the deaths and the critical injuries sustained by the other victims, calling the attack “an assault not only on public servants, but on democracy itself.”
He continued: “These were elected officials doing the people’s work, trying to make our communities stronger. To see them targeted in such a brutal and calculated way is beyond horrifying. Minnesota is grieving, but we will not be shaken.”
Federal authorities have since announced that domestic terrorism charges may be filed in addition to state-level charges, including first-degree murder, attempted murder, impersonating a police officer, and unlawful possession of restricted law enforcement materials.
Neighbors and Witnesses Speak Out
Residents in both affected neighborhoods described waking to the sounds of gunfire and sirens. Some reported seeing flashing lights outside their windows and assumed a traffic stop or routine police response was taking place. It was only later that the gravity of the situation became clear.
“We thought it was a raid or something,” said one neighbor in Champlin. “But then we saw the SWAT team roll in, and it was obvious this was way more serious. We had no idea our neighbor had been shot. It’s heartbreaking.”
Another witness, living near the Brooklyn Park crime scene, said she heard multiple gunshots and saw someone in tactical gear moving quickly toward a parked vehicle. “It looked like a police officer at first glance—until the real cops showed up a few minutes later,” she said.
Community in Mourning, Vigils Planned
By Saturday evening, makeshift memorials began forming outside both homes. Flowers, candles, and handwritten notes flooded the sidewalks as community members struggled to process the devastating news. Plans for candlelight vigils and public tributes are already underway, with local churches and civic groups coordinating efforts to support the affected families.
Public schools where the lawmakers had previously engaged in youth outreach programs held moments of silence, and Minnesota’s House and Senate chambers have been draped in black cloth in honor of their fallen colleagues.
“This was a gut punch to our community,” said a city council member from the area. “We’ve lost friends, mentors, and public servants who never stopped working for us. It’s a moment of unimaginable grief.”
Mental Health and Security Concerns Reignited
The incident has reignited urgent discussions about mental health, gun access, and the safety of public officials. In recent years, lawmakers across the country have reported increased threats, harassment, and security risks both online and in person. Experts say the lines between political disagreement and targeted violence are becoming increasingly blurred.
A spokesperson for the Minnesota Department of Public Safety confirmed that state officials are reviewing current security protocols for elected representatives and may begin implementing new safeguards—including optional home surveillance support and law enforcement check-ins for high-profile lawmakers.
Political scientists and law enforcement analysts alike warn that the attack could mark a turning point in how government officials are protected in an increasingly volatile climate.
“This kind of politically motivated violence is something we’ve seen escalating across the country,” said a security expert from the University of Minnesota. “The use of a law enforcement disguise is particularly concerning—it undermines trust in actual officers and suggests a dangerous level of premeditation.”
Calls for Unity and Reflection
Despite the pain and trauma inflicted, community leaders and elected officials across party lines have urged Minnesotans not to let fear and division take hold. In joint statements, both major political parties expressed solidarity with the victims and condemned violence in all forms.
“Our hearts are broken, but our resolve is firm,” said a state legislative leader. “These attacks were meant to silence voices—but they will only make us speak louder for justice, decency, and democracy.”
In houses of worship, town halls, and community centers across Minnesota, citizens gathered over the weekend to grieve, pray, and recommit themselves to values of civility and peace.
Ongoing Investigation
As of Sunday morning, authorities continued their investigation, seeking to reconstruct the suspect’s movements leading up to the shootings, possible communications with others, and whether additional targets had been considered. Forensic teams are processing digital devices and interviewing associates who may have observed concerning behavior in the days or weeks prior.
The suspect remains in custody at a secure facility, and a court hearing is expected within days. Prosecutors are expected to request no bail, citing the premeditated and highly dangerous nature of the crimes.
Law enforcement has urged anyone with additional information—no matter how minor—to come forward. A dedicated tip line has been established to collect community reports as investigators build a comprehensive case.
A State Scarred, But Not Broken
While Minnesota mourns, its leaders and people are rallying together in defiance of fear. The tragedy has cast a long shadow, but it has also prompted an outpouring of unity and resilience.
Whether through candlelight vigils, legislative reforms, or quiet acts of neighborly support, the state is determined to ensure that the legacies of those lost will not be defined by violence, but by the lives they lived, the change they created, and the community that stands united in their honor.