Melissa Hortman and her spouse, Mark Hortman's children, have finally broken their silence following the tragic event. On June 14th, the esteemed Minnesota lawmaker and her beloved husband were fatally shot in what Governor Tim Walz described as a "politically motivated assassination." Their heartbroken offspring, Sophie and Colin, have now spoken out.
"Our world has been shattered by the loss of our parents, Melissa and Mark," the couple's children stated in a heartfelt message to People. "They were the radiant beacons at the heart of our lives, and the reality of their absence is inconceivable. Their love for us knew no bounds, and we miss them dearly."
The surviving family members of the Hortmans have continued to express their profound gratitude for the overwhelming support they have received over the past few days. "We want to assure everyone that we are safe and surrounded by loved ones," their statement continued. "We are deeply touched by the outpouring of love and support, and we kindly request your respect for our family's privacy as we navigate through this period of mourning."
Sophie and Colin's statement comes three days after the devastating incident, which saw Melissa, 55, and her husband shot dead in the wee hours of June 14th. Authorities apprehended Vance Boelter, 57, on June 16th, following a grueling two-day manhunt. He is suspected of being responsible for the Hortmans' untimely demise.
Prior to the fatal shooting, Boelter allegedly visited the homes of other Minnesota officials, including Senator John Hoffman and his wife Yvette, as revealed by acting Minnesota District Attorney Joseph Thompson during a press conference, according to NBC News. Boelter arrived at the Hoffmans' residence around 2 a.m., disguised as a police officer and wearing a hyper-realistic silicone mask. The couple opened the door after Boelter shouted, "This is the police!" However, they quickly realized their mistake as the suspect forced his way in and shot them both. Their daughter swiftly dialed 911, and the Hoffmans remain in critical condition in the hospital.
"Boelter meticulously planned his attack," Thompson stated at a press conference, as reported by NBC News. "He researched his victims and their families, using the internet and other tools to uncover their addresses and names, including those of their family members. He conducted surveillance on their homes and meticulously documented their locations."
