The Minnesota political world was shattered this morning when State Representative Melissa Hortman (D) and her husband, John, were found dead in their Brooklyn Park home in what authorities are calling an apparent murder-suicide. The couple leaves behind two teenage children.
The Chilling 911 Call
At approximately 3:17 AM, the couple’s 17-year-old daughter called police, reporting gunshots in the home. When officers arrived, they found:
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John Hortman, 52, deceased from an apparent self-inflicted gunshot wound
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Melissa Hortman, 50, fatally wounded by gunfire
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No signs of forced entry or struggle
A Rising Political Star Cut Short
Melissa Hortman was a four-term legislator and former House Majority Leader, known for her fierce advocacy on:
✔️ Education reform
✔️ Gun control legislation
✔️ Mental health funding
Ironically, she had recently pushed for stricter domestic violence protections—a tragic twist that has colleagues questioning everything.
The Warning Signs Missed?
Friends now recall troubling details:
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John had lost his job six months prior
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Melissa canceled multiple appearances recently, citing “family matters”
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A neighbor reported yelling heard late at night last week
The Children Left Behind
The Hortmans’ two teens (17 and 15) are now with relatives. A GoFundMe for their education has already surpassed $250,000.
Domestic Violence Resources
If you or someone you know needs help:
📞 National Domestic Violence Hotline: 1-800-799-7233
🌐 TheHotline.org