Senator and spouse report being shot 17 times before the attack on others continued

Assassination Attempt on Minnesota Senator

A Minnesota senator, John Hoffman, has disclosed that he and his wife, Ybette, were shot a total of 17 times during a frightening incident last weekend. This shocking information has come to light through a statement from the couple, which offers insight into the harrowing experience they endured early Saturday morning.

The assailant, identified as Vance Luther Boerter, also targeted three other homes and tragically killed Minnesota Senator Melissa Hortman and her husband, Mark. Boerter was apprehended days later following an extensive manhunt.

What Happened That Night

Interestingly, Hoffman was attending a Democratic fundraising event that evening and was staying at a friend’s home when Boerter began knocking violently on their door around 2 a.m. According to Hoffman, Boerter claimed to be a police officer, but the situation quickly escalated.

“We all huddled at the front door when it opened. I charged at the gunman, who had his weapon pointed straight at me,” Hoffman recounted. In the chaos, he was shot nine times. Ybette, showing remarkable bravery, managed to push the intruder away and close the door, enduring eight shots herself as she did so.

Aftermath and Recovery

Following the shooting, the couple was rushed to the hospital. Senator Hoffman remains in critical but stable condition, while Ybette was released and is recovering.

After the attack on Hoffman, Boerter allegedly targeted two other lawmakers, but fortunately, no one was home at one location. In a chilling chain of events, he arrived at Senator Hortman’s home around 3:30 a.m., where he fatally shot the couple.

The Community Reacts

This series of attacks has deeply unsettled the nation, prompting the Hoffmans to pay tribute to their slain friends. “We are heartbroken to learn of the assassination of Melissa and Mark Hortman,” they said. The couple emphasized the need for society to collaborate to foster a peaceful environment for all.

As for Boerter, he faces multiple federal charges including two counts of murder and other firearm-related offenses. Prosecutors have stated that they seek to elevate one of the charges to first-degree murder.

Authorities discovered an arsenal of firearms, including assault rifles and a significant amount of ammunition, when they searched Boerter’s vehicle. A notebook was also found containing a list of over 45 names, suggesting possible targets, including Hortman.