In a harrowing and tragic event over the weekend, the wife of Minnesota State Senator John Hoffman reportedly threw herself on top of the couple’s daughter, Hope Hoffman, using her body as a shield to protect her during what has been described as a politically motivated assassination attempt.
The suspect, Vance Boetler, allegedly targeted the family in a violent attack that left John and Yvette Hoffman seriously injured.
The Attack and Heroic Actions of Yvette Hoffman
Around 2 a.m. on Saturday morning, Vance Boetler, 57, broke into the Hoffman home in Champlin, Minnesota. According to a relative, Mat Ollig, Boetler, dressed in police gear and armed, shot John Hoffman six times and Yvette Hoffman five times during the violent assault.
In a desperate attempt to save their daughter, Hope, who was in her 20s and born with spina bifida, Yvette Hoffman threw herself on top of her, using her own body as a shield to protect her from the gunfire. Remarkably, Hope was unharmed.
The horrific attack is being investigated as a political act of terrorism. According to Ollig, the violence was driven by political motivations, with Boetler allegedly targeting the Hoffmans and Minnesota Rep. Melissa Hortman, who was murdered by Boetler shortly after the Hoffman shooting.
Boetler had reportedly planned more attacks, with a manifesto discovered at the scene containing the names of additional targets.
The Investigation and Boetler’s Escape
Local police responded to the Hoffmans’ home after receiving a 911 call about the shooting. Despite their injuries, both John and Yvette Hoffman survived and were rushed to the hospital.
The suspect, Vance Boetler, continued his violent spree, moving on to Hortman’s home in Brooklyn Park, where he killed Rep. Melissa Hortman and her husband around 3:30 a.m. Police were able to engage with Boetler, but he escaped on foot, evading capture.
Boetler had allegedly donned police gear and used a vehicle resembling a police SUV, which was found outside the Hortman residence.
Inside the vehicle, authorities discovered a manifesto listing nearly 70 names, most of whom were Democratic politicians or individuals linked to abortion rights.
Political Violence and Governor’s Response
The shocking violence has drawn condemnation from across the political spectrum, with Minnesota Governor Tim Walz describing the incidents as targeted political violence.
Walz has pledged to ensure that those responsible for the attack are held accountable and expressed his commitment to preventing such tragedies from occurring in the future.
“The list found in Boetler’s vehicle included high-profile targets such as Rep. Ilhan Omar and Sen. Tina Smith, signaling the politically charged nature of these attacks,” local news outlets reported.
Boetler reportedly sent messages to his roommates, claiming to have made “bad choices” and expressing fear that he might not survive. As of Sunday, Boetler remained at large, and authorities were working to track him down.
Community Shock and Outpouring of Support
The Hoffmans have long been known for their commitment to public service, particularly in advocating for people with disabilities, which was a driving force behind John Hoffman’s political career.
The couple’s tragic experience has left the local community reeling, with many expressing shock and sorrow over the brutal attack.
Neighbors and loved ones have rallied around the Hoffmans, expressing their support during this incredibly difficult time. The Hoffmans’ daughter, Hope, continues to receive emotional support as she processes the trauma of the attack.
As law enforcement intensifies its efforts to capture Vance Boetler, the Hoffmans’ story has drawn national attention to the dangers of politically motivated violence.
The community and the nation are watching closely as the investigation unfolds, hoping for justice in the wake of these senseless killings.
