Melissa Hortman and her husband Mark’s children are breaking their silence after a devastating weekend.
The former Minnesota State Representative and her husband were tragically murdered on Saturday morning in a targeted attack allegedly carried out by Vance Boelter. Governor Tim Walz speculated the slayings, along with the shootings of Senator John Hoffman and his wife Yvette shortly before, were “politically motivated.” As investigators work out what happened and why, there are two kids who have been left without their mom and dad.
On Monday, Sophie and Colin Hortman, the children of Melissa and Mark, spoke out after the murders of their parents. In a statement obtained by People, they said:
“We are devastated and heartbroken at the loss of our parents, Melissa and Mark. They were the bright lights at the center of our lives, and we can’t believe they are gone. Their love for us was boundless. We miss them so much.”
So incredibly heartbreaking. That poor family.
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They went on to assure the public that they are safe in the aftermath of the shootings:
“We want everyone to know that we are both safe and with loved ones. We are grateful for the outpouring of love and support we have received, and we appreciate your respect for our family’s privacy as we grieve.”
The pair then thanked law enforcement officers for their attempt to save Melissa and Mark and their “swift action” that has saved others:
“Our family would like to thank law enforcement for their swift action that saved others and for the coordination across communities that led to the arrest of the man who murdered our parents. We especially would like to thank the officers who were first on the scene to our parents’ home and their heroic attempts to rescue our mom and dad.”
Suspected shooter Boelter was apprehended on Sunday evening and charged with two counts of second degree murder and two counts of second degree attempted murder.
In their statement, the siblings recognized their parents’ “incredible legacy” and encouraged others to honor their memory:
“Our parents touched so many lives, and they leave behind an incredible legacy of dedication to their community that will live on in us, their friends, their colleagues and co-workers, and every single person who knew and loved them. If you would like to honor the memory of Mark and Melissa, please consider the following: Plant a tree. Visit a local park and make use of their amenities, especially a bike trail. Pet a dog. A golden retriever is ideal, but any will do.”
They went on:
“Tell your loved ones a cheesy dad joke and laugh about it. Bake something — bread for Mark or a cake for Melissa, and share it with someone. Try a new hobby and enjoy learning something. Stand up for what you believe in, especially if that thing is justice and peace.”
Especially in a time like now when we need it the most.
Finally, the pair concluded:
“Hope and resilience are the enemy of fear. Our parents lived their lives with immense dedication to their fellow humans. This tragedy must become a moment for us to come together. Hold your loved ones a little closer. Love your neighbors. Treat each other with kindness and respect. The best way to honor our parents’ memory is to do something, whether big or small, to make our community just a little better for someone else.”
Such heartfelt words. We’re sending so much love their way. Rest in peace, Melissa and Mark.
[Images via Melissa Hortman/Facebook]
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