Family Dog Also Dies in Tragic Attack That Claimed Lives of Minnesota Lawmaker and Her Husband
In a devastating tragedy that has shaken Minnesota and beyond, the late State Representative Melissa Hortman, her husband Mark Hortman, and their beloved family dog, Gilbert, were all victims of a brutal attack that unfolded in their Stillwater home on Saturday.
A Shocking Loss for Minnesota and a Grieving Community
The horrifying events, described by authorities as a politically motivated attack, have claimed not only two respected public servants — but also an innocent family pet who brought warmth and companionship into their lives.
According to Emily Hill, a close family friend and wife of State Rep. Josiah Hill, the pain has only deepened with the news that Gilbert, the family’s golden retriever, had to be euthanized after being shot during the violent incident. “It’s just awful,” Hill told PEOPLE. “Melissa loved dogs and volunteered with dog rescues.”
Gilbert Was More Than a Pet — He Was a Family Hero
Hortman’s deep love for animals was well known, and her service extended beyond public office. She was actively involved with Helping Paws, a nonprofit based in Eden Prairie, Minnesota, dedicated to training service dogs for veterans and individuals with disabilities.
In a tribute shared by the organization, Melissa was praised not only for her political service but also for her compassion as a Foster Home Trainer. The Hortmans helped raise both Minnie, now a working service dog partnered with a veteran, and Gilbert, who, after a brief training career, became a cherished family member.
“Melissa served her community in more ways than one,” Helping Paws shared. “Gilbert was part of that story — and part of her heart.”
A Calculated Act of Violence: What Happened
The suspected shooter, 57-year-old Vance Boelter, was arrested after a statewide manhunt and is now facing charges including two counts of murder and two counts of attempted murder. Authorities say Boelter impersonated a law enforcement officer before targeting multiple public officials.
In addition to killing Melissa and Mark Hortman, Boelter allegedly shot State Senator John Hoffman and his wife, Yvette, at their home just nine miles away. The Hoffmans survived the attack, and the state is reeling from what Governor Tim Walz has called a politically motivated act of domestic terrorism.
“One man’s unthinkable actions have altered the state of Minnesota,” Governor Walz said at a press conference. “This cannot be the norm.”
Remembering Melissa Hortman: A Leader Without Ego
Family friend Emily Hill described Hortman as selfless, grounded, and committed to the greater good. “She didn’t have an ego. She understood the bigger picture,” said Hill. Beyond politics, she was remembered as a dedicated wife and loving mother to her children, Sophia and Colin.
“It’s just so tragic that her life was cut short,” Hill added. “She was in the prime of her leadership and had so much more to give.”
A Final Farewell — And A Call to Remember Her Legacy
As tributes pour in from across the country, many remember not only Melissa’s tireless work as a public servant, but also her heart — one that extended to her family, her community, and even the dogs she helped raise and love.
Her story is now a painful reminder of the fragility of public life — and the urgency of protecting those who dedicate themselves to serving others.
