US state representative and spouse shot and killed in ’politically motivated’ attack

A manhunt is underway after a Minnesota lawmaker was killed and another injured in "targeted shootings" in the US.

Melissa Hortman and her husband were shot dead in the early hours of Saturday morning in a "politically motivated assassination", local officials said. 

State senator John Hoffman and his wife were also shot multiple times at their home, but both are expected to survive after undergoing surgery.

Minnesota Governor Tim Walz told reporters the shootings took place in Champlin and Brooklyn Park, two neighbouring cities near Minneapolis.

Police believe the gunman was impersonating a police officer and escaped after exchanging fire with officers who responded to the attacks.

Mr Walz called the killings an "unspeakable tragedy", adding that he had lost a "good friend and colleague".

Authorities are warning people in the area not to answer their door for a police officer unless there are two together.

Minnesota Superintendent Drew Evans said officers received a call at 2am regarding the incident involving Mr Hoffman and his wife.

After responding to the shooting, a police sergeant proactively checked on Democratic politician Ms Hortman at 3.35am.

When they arrived they discovered what appeared to be a police vehicle with its emergency lights on and an officer coming out of the house.

When confronted the individual exchanged gunfire with the officers and retreated into the home, before escaping out the back.

The police and the FBI are now "actively engaged in a manhunt" for the gunman, with "hundreds and hundreds of officers and Swat teams" out looking for the individual.

Police chief Mark Bruley said suspect had a car which looked "exactly like" an SUV patrol car, with blue lights.

They were also wearing a police vest, taser and badge.

The police and the FBI are now "actively engaged in a manhunt" for the gunman, with "hundreds and hundreds of officers and Swat teams" out looking for the individual. Picture: Alamy

Mr Bruley says the force has seized the suspect’s car and the man is now on foot.

Superintendent Evans said the investigation is now active and the identity of the gunman will be shared in due time.

A shelter-in-place order has been issued by Brooklyn Park Police Department for a three-mile radius of Edinburgh Golf Course.

Donald Trump said the "terrible shootings" appeared to be a "targeted attack against state lawmakers".

In a statement shared by White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt on X, Trump says: "I have been briefed on the terrible shooting that took place in Minnesota, which appears to be a targeted attack against state lawmakers.

"Our Attorney General, Pam Bondi, and the FBI, are investigating the situation, and they will be prosecuting anyone involved to the fullest extent of the law.

"Such horrific violence will not be tolerated in the United States of America. God Bless the great people of Minnesota, a truly great place!"