Statement on Murder of Rep. Melissa Hortman

Ahmadiyya Muslim Community USA mourns the tragic, targeted shooting in Minnesota that claimed the lives of State Representative Melissa Hortman and her husband, Mark. We are also deeply saddened that State Senator John Hoffman and his wife, Yvette, were seriously injured in the another attack. These acts of politically motivated violence have shaken our nation.

Rep. Hortman was a cherished friend of the Ahmadiyya Muslim Community. Since the opening of the Nusrat Mosque in Coon Rapids in 2015, she always joined the Community’s events with a warm, welcoming smile. Her support, grace, and compassion enriched our hearts and uplifted our spirits. As Muslims, we say ‘Inna lillahi wa inna illaihe raji-oon,’ meaning, ‘To God we belong and to God we return.’

“This is a shocking and deeply personal loss,” said Dr. Kamal Ahmed, Secretary of Public Affairs for Ahmadiyya Muslim Community’s local chapter in Minnesota. “Melissa touched our community beyond words. During her numerous visits to our mosque, she treated our members like family. We are so grateful for her leadership and pray for the loved ones she leaves behind.”

We extend our heartfelt condolences to the families of Rep. Hortman and her husband. May Allah the Almighty grant them strength, patience, and comfort during this unbearable time. We also pray for the full recovery of Sen. Hoffman and his wife and ask Allah to bless them with healing, resilience, and peace.

This attack is a national tragedy and a stark reminder of the rising threat of political violence in our country. Public servants, regardless of beliefs, should never live in fear within their homes or communities. We support the urgent, ongoing efforts by law enforcement and federal agencies to bring those responsible to justice.

To the friends, neighbors, constituents, and colleagues of Rep. Hortman and Sen. Hoffman, we stand with you. As we shed tears together in this time of mourning, may our communities draw closer, bound by unity, compassion, and shared humanity.

Contact:

Kamal Ahmed | pa.stp@ahmadiyya.us | (612) 804-9519

Nusrat Mosque, 11450 Robinson Drive, Coon Rapids, MN 55433