The full statement from Sophie and Colin Hortman following the deaths of their parents, Melissa and Mark Hortman, has left a profound impact on communities across Minnesota and beyond. Released on June 16, 2025, this poignant message captures the deep grief of two children mourning the tragic loss of their parents, who were killed in a targeted shooting in their Brooklyn Park home. Their words not only express sorrow but also offer a powerful call for unity and kindness, reflecting the values their parents championed. Let’s explore the statement’s significance, its suggestions for honoring Melissa and Mark, and the legacy it seeks to preserve.
The Full Statement from Sophie and Colin Hortman
Sophie and Colin Hortman shared their statement just two days after the devastating assassination of their parents on June 14, 2025. They described Melissa and Mark as “the bright lights at the center of our lives,” emphasizing the boundless love their parents showed them. The siblings expressed disbelief at their loss, stating, “We can’t believe they are gone. We miss them so much.” They reassured the public of their safety, noting they are with loved ones and grateful for the overwhelming support received.
The statement also thanked law enforcement for their swift action in apprehending Vance Boelter, the 57-year-old suspect charged with the murders. Sophie and Colin highlighted their parents’ lasting impact, saying, “Our parents touched so many lives, and they leave behind an incredible legacy of dedication to their community.” This legacy, they hope, will live on through acts of kindness inspired by their parents’ values.
A Call to Honor Melissa and Mark
The full statement from Sophie and Colin Hortman includes heartfelt suggestions for honoring their parents’ memory. These ideas reflect Melissa and Mark’s passions and commitment to community, encouraging simple yet meaningful actions. Here are some of their recommendations:
- Plant a tree: Celebrate Melissa’s advocacy for environmental protection.
- Visit a local park: Enjoy bike trails, a nod to the couple’s love for outdoor activities.
- Pet a dog: Preferably a golden retriever, honoring their beloved pet Gilbert, who also died in the tragedy.
- Bake something: Share bread for Mark or a cake for Melissa with someone.
- Try a new hobby: Embrace learning, reflecting their curiosity.
- Stand up for justice and peace: Continue their fight for a better world.
These suggestions invite everyone to make small, positive changes, embodying the Hortmans’ belief that “hope and resilience are the enemy of fear.”
The Tragic Loss and Its Context
Melissa Hortman, a prominent Minnesota House Democratic leader, and her husband, Mark, were fatally shot in what Governor Tim Walz called a politically motivated attack. The incident also injured State Senator John Hoffman and his wife, Yvette, in a separate shooting. The suspect, Vance Boelter, was arrested on June 15 after a 36-hour manhunt. The Hortmans’ golden retriever, Gilbert, was gravely injured and euthanized, adding to the family’s grief.
Sophie and Colin’s statement stands out for its grace amid such tragedy. They urged people to “hold your loved ones a little closer” and “treat each other with kindness and respect,” turning personal loss into a universal call for compassion. Their words resonate in a time of heightened political tension, offering a path toward healing.
A Legacy of Dedication and Love
Melissa Hortman served Minnesota’s District 34B for 20 years, including as House Speaker from 2019 to 2025. Known for her work on clean energy, women’s rights, and free school lunches, she was a tireless public servant. Mark, a program manager, supported her career while sharing her commitment to community, including training service dogs for veterans. Together, they raised Sophie, an educator, and Colin, an IT analyst, instilling values of service and empathy.
The full statement from Sophie and Colin Hortman underscores their parents’ “immense dedication to their fellow humans.” By encouraging acts of kindness, they ensure Melissa and Mark’s legacy endures. Their message has inspired many, with social media posts praising its call for unity and actionable ways to honor the couple.
Moving Forward with Hope
Sophie and Colin’s statement is more than a tribute—it’s a roadmap for healing. Their call to “make our community just a little better for someone else” challenges us to act with purpose. In a world often divided, their words remind us that small gestures can bridge gaps and foster resilience. As Minnesota grieves, the Hortman children’s message offers hope, urging us to live with the same compassion their parents embodied.
Let’s honor Melissa and Mark by taking action. Bake a cake, pet a dog, or stand up for justice. Share your stories of kindness on social media to keep their legacy alive.