In the Line of Service
Remembering those who gave their lives in quiet service to the people of Minnesota.
Brooklyn Park, MN – June 15, 2025
On a quiet summer evening, two homes went dark. Not just from the flicker of violence, but from the extinguishing of lives committed to public service, family, and the quiet courage of doing the work.
Minnesota State Representative Melissa Hortman, a longtime advocate and former Speaker of the House, and her husband Mark, were killed in their home by a man impersonating a police officer. On the same night, State Senator John Hoffman and his wife Yvette were also targeted. Both were seriously wounded, though they survived. Yvette is credited with shielding their daughter from the attack.
These were not the deaths of strangers. These were neighbors, parents, leaders. They were taken not because of who they harmed, but because of what they represented: public service, democracy, and decency.
Authorities believe the suspect compiled a hit list, targeting dozens more across ideological lines. This was not political strategy. This was political terrorism.
And yet, this post is not about the killer. It is about the loss, and what we choose to do with it.
Let this be a moment of collective mourning, but also a reaffirmation of purpose. To stand against violence. To protect civil servants. To honor the families shattered not just by bullets, but by the cruel intention behind them.
We remember Melissa and Mark.
We support John and Yvette.
We recommit to the fragile, vital work of democracy.
They served. They loved. They were taken.
Share your memories, tributes, or quiet reflections below. Let their legacy live on not in headlines, but in hearts.