“We are both incredibly lucky to be alive”: John Hoffman’s wife opens up amid ongoing shooting investigation

Vance Luther Boelter has been arrested for shooting John Hoffman and his wife after a nearly two-day search that followed the shooting of two Minnesota lawmakers and their spouses. His arrest brings an end to what Brooklyn Park Police Chief Mark Bruley described as "the largest manhunt in the state's history", with around 20 SWAT teams deployed for his search.

In her first public comment, Yvette Hoffman said,

“We are both incredibly lucky to be alive. We are gutted and devastated by the loss of Melissa and Mark. We have no words. There is never a place for this kind of political hate. Thank you for your friendship always. Minnesotans are at our very best when we stand together."

After surviving multiple gunshot wounds, the couple remains in critical but stable condition. John Hoffman had endured nine bullet hits while Yvette had eight. Their survival comes amid a broader investigation into a politically motivated shooting spree that claimed the lives of State Representative Melissa Hortman and her husband, Mark Horton.

Also Read: Diddy trial recap: What happened on the day 23 of testimony? Key highlights explained

---

Explanation of who was shot and where it happened

Early on June 14, a gunman posing as a police officer went to two homes in Champlin and Brooklyn Park, both near Minneapolis. At about 2 a.m., State Senator John Hoffman and his wife, Yvette, were shot at their Champlin house.

Yvette said they were “incredibly lucky” to survive the attack. Later the same morning, former House Speaker Melissa Hortman and her husband, Mark, were shot and killed at their Brooklyn Park home. Authorities view both attacks as linked.

---

How the suspect was identified and found

Police quickly identified Vance Boelter, a 57-year-old man, after finding a staged police-style SUV and a list of around 70 names in his vehicle. Officials believe these names included federal and community figures and abortion rights activists, and information regarding their healthcare facilities.

Authorities say Boelter had altered the SUV to look like a fake police car. He was located on Sunday evening near Sibley County, southwest of Minneapolis.

Also Read: What did Judge Mathis say about Diddy? TV judge won’t attend trial but says rapper's friends should

---

Official reaction and what investigators have said

At a press conference, Gov. Tim Walz said,

“One man’s unthinkable actions have altered the state of Minnesota.”

Described the shootings as politically motivated. Drew Evans, superintendent of the Minnesota Bureau of Criminal Apprehension, added that law enforcement was using the suspect’s belongings and vehicle to piece together the extent of the plot. Senator Amy Klobuchar also thanked first responders, calling the arrest a “mammoth and heroic effort” on X.

---

Details on the injuries and ongoing medical care

John Hoffman was treated for multiple gunshot wounds and underwent surgery. His wife, Yvette, also had surgery and remains hospitalized.

Their daughter called 911 when the shooter arrived at their door, helping to get an ambulance quickly to the scene. Doctors say both are now stable and on the road to recovery. They reportedly feel shaken but are focused on healing and returning home.

---

Reactions from officials and the community

Governor Walz praised the rapid response of emergency crews and expressed cautious optimism about the Yvette and John Hoffmans’ recovery. Senator Amy Klobuchar shared Yvette’s gratitude for the “love and outpouring we've received from everyone," and also stated that John Hoffman is,

"[...]is closer every hour to being out of the woods.”

Residents have organized neighborhood watch meetings and upgraded home security measures in response to the shooting. Condolences and support have also poured in from across Minnesota, reflecting shared shock at the violence.

Also Read: Rosie O’Donnell celebrates son Parker’s 30th birthday with a rare photo

---

Why the arrests and investigation matter

The discovery of a target list suggests the shooter planned more than one attack. Investigators are reviewing whether he selected his victims for their political views, especially on abortion.

Boelter has been charged with two counts of murder and two counts of attempted murder, and he remains in custody as more evidence is gathered. Authorities have asked anyone with information to come forward.

---

What comes next for the community and the victims

The statewide community response has included memorials for the Hortmans, messages of relief, and a GoFundMe account set up for the recovery of John Hoffman and his family. Lawmakers and neighbors of John Hoffman are speaking out against political violence and calling for safer dialogue.

With the suspect in custody, families can begin to heal, and police can focus on building a legal case. The investigation will likely reveal more as phone records, CCTV footage, and Boelter’s writings are analyzed.