Press Release
In a heart-wrenching aftermath of the tragic shooting of former Minnesota lawmaker Melissa Hortman and her husband, Mark, their beloved rescue dog Gilbert was euthanized days after the event. The family’s golden retriever was allegedly shot by Vance Boelter during the attack at their Brooklyn Park residence. Representative Erin Koegel shared the news on social media, revealing that Hortman’s children made the painful decision to put Gilbert down after their parents’ death.
Gilbert, a service dog in training, held a special place in Hortman’s heart. Helping Paws, a local nonprofit, mourned her passing, recalling her dedication to service dog training and her kindness to both animals and community members. They noted that Gilbert, having “flunked out” of the service program, remained a treasured family pet.
Authorities apprehended Boelter after an extensive manhunt, and he now faces multiple federal charges, including murder and firearm-related offenses. His actions also resulted in injuries to State Senator John Hoffman and his wife during a related shooting incident. The Hortman family urged the community to honor their parents’ memory by cherishing pets, especially golden retrievers.
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