What to do if you receive a Shelter in Place Alert

🔍 What’s Going On

Overnight targeted shootings: Two Minnesota Democratic lawmakers—State Senator John Hoffman in Champlin and State Representative Melissa Hortman in Brooklyn Park—plus their spouses, were shot at their homes just after 2 a.m. on June 14, 2025. Suspects posed as police, wearing body armor and using a vehicle with flashing lights.

Emergency response: A shelter-in-place order is active within a ~3-mile radius around Edinburgh Golf Course in Brooklyn Park. Police are actively searching for a white male suspect in black body armor, disguised as a law enforcement officer. One suspect was apprehended following an officer-involved shooting; another remains at large.

Government action: Governor Walz has opened the State Emergency Operations Center and pledged full support to local law enforcement.

✅ What You Should Do

1. Stay Indoors & Secure

• Do not leave your home unless absolutely necessary.
• Lock all doors and windows, and use exterior lighting.
• Activate security systems if available.
• Consult neighbors only via phone/text — avoid in-person contact.

2. Verify “Officers”

• If law enforcement comes to your door:
• Ask for two officers to appear together.
• Call 911 independently to confirm their identity before answering.
• Do not approach or engage with anyone claiming to be an officer without verification.

3. Be Alert & Report

• Use caution with unusual vehicles—especially black SUVs with police-like lights.
• If you see something suspicious (a person in armor or your home being approached), remain inside and call 911 immediately, providing a detailed description.

4. Stay Informed

• Keep your phone on for alerts.
• Follow official local resources:
• Police social media
• Department of Public Safety updates
• Emergency alert systems
• Local news for press conferences and advisories

5. Prepare an Emergency Plan

• Have ID and emergency contacts easily accessible.
• Gather essential items (keys, phone, meds) in case you must move quickly.
• Use a family communication plan to stay in touch or regroup if needed.

6. Provide Community Support

• If you’re safe: offer check-ins via phone with neighbors, especially elderly or vulnerable individuals.
• Avoid spreading unconfirmed information—stick to verified sources to prevent panic.

🏠 After the Threat Subsides

• Wait for official “all clear” notifications before resuming normal routines.
• Be calm but cautious when interacting with law enforcement outside.
• Consider joining or forming a neighborhood watch to improve readiness for future threats.

🧭 Why This Matters

An impersonator wearing body armor and credentials can exploit trust in law enforcement—underlining the need for vigilance. The suspects were targeting political figures, making it critical to verify identities and cooperate with authorities for mutual safety.

Bottom line: Keep your home secure, verify anyone claiming to be a police officer, stay alert, and follow official guidance. These actions can make a life-and-death difference.