ST. PAUL, Minn. (AP) - A somber vigil took place on Wednesday evening outside Minnesota's Capitol, where hundreds gathered to remember former House Speaker Melissa Hortman and her husband, Mark. The couple was tragically gunned down at their home in the northern suburbs of Minneapolis early Saturday morning.
Among the attendees was Minnesota Governor Tim Walz, who expressed his grief and paid tribute to Hortman, describing her as his closest political ally and "the most consequential Speaker in state history." As a brass quintet from the Minnesota Orchestra provided music, Governor Walz, visibly emotional, comforted those in attendance.
The vigil featured a variety of performances, including a Native American drum circle and a string quartet. The crowd joined together to sing "Amazing Grace," creating a poignant atmosphere of solidarity and remembrance. The memorial, which emerged outside the Capitol following the killings, was adorned with flowers, American flags, and photographs of the Hortmans. Attendees left sticky notes with heartfelt messages such as "Thank you for always believing in me and in Minnesota" and "We got this from here. Thank you for everything."
A notable police presence ensured the safety of the vigil, with law enforcement officials blocking off streets leading to the Capitol and state troopers maintaining order. The event was conducted without a formal speaking program, and attendees were advised against bringing signs.
The alleged perpetrator of this heinous crime, Vance Boelter, has been charged in both federal and state courts. He is also accused of shooting another Democratic lawmaker, Senator John Hoffman, and his wife, Yvette, at their home in Champlin. Fortunately, the Hoffmans survived the attack and are currently in recovery. Federal prosecutors have not released any information regarding a potential motive behind the shootings.
Boelter's attorneys have refrained from commenting on the charges against him. Melissa Hortman had been a prominent figure in the Minnesota House, serving as the top House Democratic leader since 2017 and as Speaker from 2019. Following a power-sharing agreement after the 2024 election resulted in a tie in the House, Hortman held the title of speaker emerita while Republican Representative Lisa Demuth assumed the role of Speaker.
Both Melissa and Mark Hortman were alumni of the University of Minnesota, prompting the institution to hold a separate memorial gathering on its Minneapolis campus. University President Rebecca Cunningham addressed the audience, expressing the collective grief and outrage felt by the community. She emphasized the need for unity, stating, "I don't have the answers to these questions, but I know that finding answers starts with coming together in community as we are today."
As of now, funeral arrangements for the Hortmans have not yet been disclosed, adding to the sense of loss and mourning in the community.
