OSAGE COUNTY—Law enforcement are investigating a suspect on multiple drug allegations.

Just before 6p.m.&nbsp;&nbsp;June 13, an Osage County Sheriff’s Office K-9 unit conducted a traffic stop at 189th and Stanley Road for a traffic violation, according to Osage County Sheriff Chris Wells. During the stop, illegal narcotics were located.

Daniel L. Bigenwalt Jr, 59, of Topeka was taken into custody and transported to the Osage County Jail Facility on requested charges of&nbsp;&nbsp;Possession of methamphetamine, Possession of marijuana and Driving while license suspended

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/6/1749996474234.png" alt="Bigenwalt-photo Osage Co." />
 <figcaption>Bigenwalt-photo Osage Co.</figcaption>
 </figure>OSAGE COUNTY—Law enforcement are investigating a suspect on multiple drug allegations.Just before 6p.m.&nbsp;&nbsp;June 13, an Osage County Sheriff’s Office K-9 unit conducted a traffic stop at 189th and Stanley Road for a traffic violation, according to Osage County Sheriff Chris Wells. During the stop, illegal narcotics were located.Daniel L. Bigenwalt Jr, 59, of Topeka was taken into custody and transported to the Osage County Jail Facility on requested charges of&nbsp;&nbsp;Possession of methamphetamine, Possession of marijuana and Driving while license suspended

Sheriff's K9 unit ruins Kansas man's weekend plans

JOHNSON COUNTY— Two people were injured in a small plane crash that occurred just before 1:30p.m. Monday in Johnson County.

The Kansas Highway Patrol reported a Beech King Air piloted by Leslie&nbsp;Gorden, 73, Lee's Summit, Missouri, was southbound when a mechanical malfunction caused the left engine to become inoperable. The pilot lost control of airplane turning left and crashing into the roof of a building at the New Century AirCenter, 1 New Century Parkway, Gardner, Kansas.

EMS transported&nbsp; Gordon and a passenger Delaney&nbsp;Rindal, 30,&nbsp;Wasilla, Arkansas, to Overland Park Regional Medical Center&nbsp;for treatment of minor injuries.

The FAA and National Transportation Safety Board will investigate the incident.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/6/1750106633244.png" alt="Photo courtesy KCTV" />
 <figcaption>Photo courtesy KCTV</figcaption>
 </figure>JOHNSON COUNTY— Two people were injured in a small plane crash that occurred just before 1:30p.m. Monday in Johnson County.The Kansas Highway Patrol reported a Beech King Air piloted by Leslie&nbsp;Gorden, 73, Lee's Summit, Missouri, was southbound when a mechanical malfunction caused the left engine to become inoperable. The pilot lost control of airplane turning left and crashing into the roof of a building at the New Century AirCenter, 1 New Century Parkway, Gardner, Kansas.EMS transported&nbsp; Gordon and a passenger Delaney&nbsp;Rindal, 30,&nbsp;Wasilla, Arkansas, to Overland Park Regional Medical Center&nbsp;for treatment of minor injuries.The FAA and National Transportation Safety Board will investigate the incident.

2 hospitalized after plane crash into building at Kansas airport

Washington –&nbsp;On Monday, U.S. Senator Roger Marshall published an&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="file:///The%2520U.S.%2520Army%E2%80%99s%2520250th%2520birthday/%2520a%2520personal%2520and%2520national%2520triumph">op-ed&nbsp;</a>in The Washington Times, marking the celebration of the 250th&nbsp;Birthday of the United States Army, and reflecting on how these celebrations can restore pride in America again.

The Army’s 250th Birthday: A Personal and National Triumph

Standing in a quiet room at Gettysburg last month, I read about Lincoln’s Address—many headlines from 1863 called it “silly,” others “a perfected gem.” That’s the America I love: where we speak freely, protest boldly, and debate fiercely. Yet, as I scanned coverage of the U.S. Army’s 250th birthday celebration on June 14, 2025, one truth was missing: 1.3 million soldiers gave their lives to protect those freedoms. The grand parade and festival on the National Mall weren’t just a showcase of strength; it was a rebirth of patriotism, a moment that hit me personally and resonated for our nation.

My family’s story is woven into the Army’s 250 years. Every generation has served. Three ancestors fell in the Civil War’s brutal fields. A great-uncle, along with many other brave soldiers, suffocated from nerve gas in the Argonne Forest during World War I, the “war to end all wars.” Two other great-uncles stormed Normandy’s beaches; later in the Second World War, my wife lost an uncle. My dad served, my brother served, I served, and my son serves today. I’ve always believed every American should serve, not just for duty, but to feel the weight of sacrifice. At this great celebration, watching my grandsons’ eyes light up as tanks rumbled by on the Mall, I saw history spark their young hearts. This celebration wasn’t just about the past; it was about inspiring the future.

I’ve lived through patriotism’s highs and lows. The Korean War, before my time, sparked questions about America’s global role. Vietnam, which I watched as a kid, left us confused—protests clashed with America First pride. The Gulf Wars came, and as 9/11’s memory faded, we debated how far was too far. Over the last four years, an open border signaled a nation adrift, with our military and law enforcement wondering if their commander-in-chief had their backs. Patriotism seemed shattered. But June 14 was a new day. The first-ever Army birthday celebration on the National Mall, with 6,600 soldiers marching, felt like a reset—a bold reclaiming of national pride.

My daughter and niece, there with their young kids, saw it too. They said the parade taught their children military history, American pride, and gratitude for freedoms won through sacrifice. Veterans at home, glued to their TVs, felt seen—many watched every moment, marveling at “cool weapons,” tanks, and drones. Nearby us was a mom whose son re-enlisted, sworn in by President Trump. Tears streamed down her face as she waved her flag, her Army shirt emblazoned with her son’s regiment. “This is for all who served,” she said. I wish every veteran could’ve been flown to D.C. to feel that joy.

The celebration’s significance ran deeper. It honored a legacy: the Army, born a year before the Declaration of Independence, secured our freedom in the Revolutionary War and defended us through the Civil War, World Wars, and modern conflicts. It showcased unity, with events like the wreath-laying at the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier echoing the Army’s motto, “This We’ll Defend.” It highlighted innovation—radar, the internet, wireless tech—all rooted in Army ingenuity that shaped global progress. It inspired, with the “Be All You Can Be” campaign driving recruitment to 85% of 2025’s target, promising the strongest class in years. And as a prelude to America’s 250th anniversary in 2026, it set the stage for national reflection.

While too much of the media focused on other issues, no one can doubt that this celebration restored pride, boosted military morale, and sent a message to the world. As my grandson exclaimed, “America’s Army is undefeated,” rolling through 250 years of victories. To those burning flags or kneeling during the anthem, it’s a gut punch—a pain that breaks the hearts of those who served. I wish they’d served, felt the cost of freedom, had held a dying soldier in their arms as they said their last words, or joined a Chaplain as they delivered the news of a lost loved one to a young wife and children.&nbsp;&nbsp;As riots flare, let’s remember: millions died so we can stand, debate, and rebuild.

Regardless, when the President calls, the Army is rolling along!

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/6/1749942947564.png" alt="Images from White House video" />
 <figcaption>Images from White House video</figcaption>
 </figure>Washington –&nbsp;On Monday, U.S. Senator Roger Marshall published an&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="file:///The%2520U.S.%2520Army%E2%80%99s%2520250th%2520birthday/%2520a%2520personal%2520and%2520national%2520triumph">op-ed&nbsp;</a>in The Washington Times, marking the celebration of the 250th&nbsp;Birthday of the United States Army, and reflecting on how these celebrations can restore pride in America again.The Army’s 250th Birthday: A Personal and National TriumphStanding in a quiet room at Gettysburg last month, I read about Lincoln’s Address—many headlines from 1863 called it “silly,” others “a perfected gem.” That’s the America I love: where we speak freely, protest boldly, and debate fiercely. Yet, as I scanned coverage of the U.S. Army’s 250th birthday celebration on June 14, 2025, one truth was missing: 1.3 million soldiers gave their lives to protect those freedoms. The grand parade and festival on the National Mall weren’t just a showcase of strength; it was a rebirth of patriotism, a moment that hit me personally and resonated for our nation.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/6/1750110648171.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>My family’s story is woven into the Army’s 250 years. Every generation has served. Three ancestors fell in the Civil War’s brutal fields. A great-uncle, along with many other brave soldiers, suffocated from nerve gas in the Argonne Forest during World War I, the “war to end all wars.” Two other great-uncles stormed Normandy’s beaches; later in the Second World War, my wife lost an uncle. My dad served, my brother served, I served, and my son serves today. I’ve always believed every American should serve, not just for duty, but to feel the weight of sacrifice. At this great celebration, watching my grandsons’ eyes light up as tanks rumbled by on the Mall, I saw history spark their young hearts. This celebration wasn’t just about the past; it was about inspiring the future.I’ve lived through patriotism’s highs and lows. The Korean War, before my time, sparked questions about America’s global role. Vietnam, which I watched as a kid, left us confused—protests clashed with America First pride. The Gulf Wars came, and as 9/11’s memory faded, we debated how far was too far. Over the last four years, an open border signaled a nation adrift, with our military and law enforcement wondering if their commander-in-chief had their backs. Patriotism seemed shattered. But June 14 was a new day. The first-ever Army birthday celebration on the National Mall, with 6,600 soldiers marching, felt like a reset—a bold reclaiming of national pride.My daughter and niece, there with their young kids, saw it too. They said the parade taught their children military history, American pride, and gratitude for freedoms won through sacrifice. Veterans at home, glued to their TVs, felt seen—many watched every moment, marveling at “cool weapons,” tanks, and drones. Nearby us was a mom whose son re-enlisted, sworn in by President Trump. Tears streamed down her face as she waved her flag, her Army shirt emblazoned with her son’s regiment. “This is for all who served,” she said. I wish every veteran could’ve been flown to D.C. to feel that joy.The celebration’s significance ran deeper. It honored a legacy: the Army, born a year before the Declaration of Independence, secured our freedom in the Revolutionary War and defended us through the Civil War, World Wars, and modern conflicts. It showcased unity, with events like the wreath-laying at the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier echoing the Army’s motto, “This We’ll Defend.” It highlighted innovation—radar, the internet, wireless tech—all rooted in Army ingenuity that shaped global progress. It inspired, with the “Be All You Can Be” campaign driving recruitment to 85% of 2025’s target, promising the strongest class in years. And as a prelude to America’s 250th anniversary in 2026, it set the stage for national reflection.While too much of the media focused on other issues, no one can doubt that this celebration restored pride, boosted military morale, and sent a message to the world. As my grandson exclaimed, “America’s Army is undefeated,” rolling through 250 years of victories. To those burning flags or kneeling during the anthem, it’s a gut punch—a pain that breaks the hearts of those who served. I wish they’d served, felt the cost of freedom, had held a dying soldier in their arms as they said their last words, or joined a Chaplain as they delivered the news of a lost loved one to a young wife and children.&nbsp;&nbsp;As riots flare, let’s remember: millions died so we can stand, debate, and rebuild.Regardless, when the President calls, the Army is rolling along!

Senator Marshall Op-Ed: U.S. Army’s 250th Birthday: A Personal and National Triumph

JOHNSON COUNTY—Law enforcement are investigating a shooting that injured a teen in Johnson County.

Just after 11:30 p.m. Sunday, responded to a report of a shooting at an apartment complex in the 9800 block of Buckingham Road in Lenexa, according to a media release. When officers arrived, all involved individuals had already left the scene.

A short time later, officers located a 16-year-old boy a few blocks away who had sustained multiple gunshot wounds.&nbsp;Johnson County Med-Act transported him a local hospital. His injuries are considered non-life-threatening.

Officers also located and detained a possible suspect—a 19-year-old male—near the area. He is currently in police custody as the investigation continues.

This case remains under active investigation by Lenexa Police Department detectives, with support from the Johnson County Crime Lab.

Anyone with information related to this incident is encouraged to contact the Lenexa Police Department at 913-477-7301.

JOHNSON COUNTY—Law enforcement are investigating a shooting that injured a teen in Johnson County.Just after 11:30 p.m. Sunday, responded to a report of a shooting at an apartment complex in the 9800 block of Buckingham Road in Lenexa, according to a media release. When officers arrived, all involved individuals had already left the scene.A short time later, officers located a 16-year-old boy a few blocks away who had sustained multiple gunshot wounds.&nbsp;Johnson County Med-Act transported him a local hospital. His injuries are considered non-life-threatening.Officers also located and detained a possible suspect—a 19-year-old male—near the area. He is currently in police custody as the investigation continues.This case remains under active investigation by Lenexa Police Department detectives, with support from the Johnson County Crime Lab.Anyone with information related to this incident is encouraged to contact the Lenexa Police Department at 913-477-7301.

16-year-old wounded in Kansas apartment complex shooting

NEW YORK (AP) — Calm returned to Wall Street on Monday, and U.S. stocks rose, while oil prices gave back some of their initial spurts following Israel's attack on Iranian nuclear and military targets at the end of last week.

The S&amp;P 500 climbed 0.9% to reclaim most of its drop from Friday. The Dow Jones Industrial Average rose 317 points, or 0.8%, and the Nasdaq composite gained 1.5%. They joined a worldwide climb for stock prices, stretching from Asia to Europe.

Israel and Iran are continuing to attack each other, and a fear remains that a wider war could constrict the flow of Iran's oil to its customers. That in turn could raise gasoline prices worldwide and keep them high.

But past conflicts in the region have seen spikes for crude prices last only briefly. They've receded after the fighting showed that it would not disrupt the flow of oil, either Iran's or other countries' through the narrow Strait of Hormuz off Iran's coast.

Hopes that the fighting could remain similarly contained this time around helped send oil prices back toward $71 per barrel on Monday.

Iran's foreign minister, Abbas Araghchi, appeared to make a veiled outreach for the U.S. to step in and negotiate an end to hostilities between Israel and Iran, saying in a post on X that a phone call from Washington to Israel's leader "may pave the way for a return to diplomacy."

A barrel of benchmark U.S. oil fell 1.7% to $71.77, while Brent crude, the international standard, dropped 1.3% to $73.23 per barrel. They had both jumped roughly 7% on Friday after the initial attacks.

In another signal of calming fear in financial markets, the price of gold also gave back some of its knee-jerk climb from Friday, when investors were looking for someplace safe to park their cash. An ounce of gold fell 1% to $3,417.30.

Wall Street has plenty of other concerns in addition to the fighting in Iran and Israel. Key among them are President Donald Trump's tariffs, which still threaten to slow the economy and raise inflation if the U.S. government doesn't win trade deals with other countries to reduce Trump's taxes on imports.

The United States is meeting with six of the world's largest economies in Canada for a Group of Seven meeting, with the specter of tariffs looming over the talks.

Later this week, the Federal Reserve is set to discuss whether to lower or raise interest rates, with the decision due on Wednesday. The nearly unanimous expectation among traders and economists is that the Fed will make no move.

The Federal Reserve has been hesitant to lower interest rates, and it's been on hold this year after cutting at the end of last year, because it's waiting to see how much Trump's tariffs will hurt the economy and raise inflation. Inflation has remained relatively tame recently, and it's near the Fed's target of 2%.

More important for financial markets on Wednesday will likely be the latest set of forecasts that Fed officials will publish for where they see the economy and interest rates heading in upcoming years. Economists at Bank of America say it could show a forecast for just one cut to interest rates this year, along with three more in 2026.

In the bond market, the yield on the 10-year Treasury rose to 4.45% from 4.41% late Friday

On Wall Street, Sage Therapeutics jumped 35.4% for one of the market's biggest gains after Supernus Pharmaceuticals said it would buy the biopharmaceutical company in a deal worth up to $795 million, or $12 per share, if certain conditions are met.

U.S. Steel rose 5.1% after Trump signed an executive order on Friday paving the way for an investment in the company by Japan's Nippon Steel. Trump would have unique influence over the operations of U.S. Steel under the terms of the deal.

They helped offset drops for defense contractors, which gave back some of their jumps from Friday. Lockheed Martin fell 4%, and Northrop Grumman sank 3.7%.

All told, the S&amp;P 500 rose 56.14 points to 6,033.11. The Dow Jones Industrial Average added 317.30 to 42,515.09, and the Nasdaq composite gained 294.39 to 19,701.21.

In stock markets abroad, indexes rose across most of Europe and Asia.

Stocks climbed 0.7% in Hong Kong and 0.3% in Shanghai after data showed stronger Chinese consumer spending for May but slower growth in factory activity and investment.

South Korea's Kospi climbed 1.8%, and Japan's Nikkei 225 rallied 1.3% for two of the world's bigger gains.

By STAN CHOE AP Business Writer.NEW YORK (AP) — Calm returned to Wall Street on Monday, and U.S. stocks rose, while oil prices gave back some of their initial spurts following Israel's attack on Iranian nuclear and military targets at the end of last week.The S&amp;P 500 climbed 0.9% to reclaim most of its drop from Friday. The Dow Jones Industrial Average rose 317 points, or 0.8%, and the Nasdaq composite gained 1.5%. They joined a worldwide climb for stock prices, stretching from Asia to Europe.Israel and Iran are continuing to attack each other, and a fear remains that a wider war could constrict the flow of Iran's oil to its customers. That in turn could raise gasoline prices worldwide and keep them high.But past conflicts in the region have seen spikes for crude prices last only briefly. They've receded after the fighting showed that it would not disrupt the flow of oil, either Iran's or other countries' through the narrow Strait of Hormuz off Iran's coast.Hopes that the fighting could remain similarly contained this time around helped send oil prices back toward $71 per barrel on Monday.Iran's foreign minister, Abbas Araghchi, appeared to make a veiled outreach for the U.S. to step in and negotiate an end to hostilities between Israel and Iran, saying in a post on X that a phone call from Washington to Israel's leader "may pave the way for a return to diplomacy."A barrel of benchmark U.S. oil fell 1.7% to $71.77, while Brent crude, the international standard, dropped 1.3% to $73.23 per barrel. They had both jumped roughly 7% on Friday after the initial attacks.In another signal of calming fear in financial markets, the price of gold also gave back some of its knee-jerk climb from Friday, when investors were looking for someplace safe to park their cash. An ounce of gold fell 1% to $3,417.30.Wall Street has plenty of other concerns in addition to the fighting in Iran and Israel. Key among them are President Donald Trump's tariffs, which still threaten to slow the economy and raise inflation if the U.S. government doesn't win trade deals with other countries to reduce Trump's taxes on imports.The United States is meeting with six of the world's largest economies in Canada for a Group of Seven meeting, with the specter of tariffs looming over the talks.Later this week, the Federal Reserve is set to discuss whether to lower or raise interest rates, with the decision due on Wednesday. The nearly unanimous expectation among traders and economists is that the Fed will make no move.The Federal Reserve has been hesitant to lower interest rates, and it's been on hold this year after cutting at the end of last year, because it's waiting to see how much Trump's tariffs will hurt the economy and raise inflation. Inflation has remained relatively tame recently, and it's near the Fed's target of 2%.More important for financial markets on Wednesday will likely be the latest set of forecasts that Fed officials will publish for where they see the economy and interest rates heading in upcoming years. Economists at Bank of America say it could show a forecast for just one cut to interest rates this year, along with three more in 2026.In the bond market, the yield on the 10-year Treasury rose to 4.45% from 4.41% late FridayOn Wall Street, Sage Therapeutics jumped 35.4% for one of the market's biggest gains after Supernus Pharmaceuticals said it would buy the biopharmaceutical company in a deal worth up to $795 million, or $12 per share, if certain conditions are met.U.S. Steel rose 5.1% after Trump signed an executive order on Friday paving the way for an investment in the company by Japan's Nippon Steel. Trump would have unique influence over the operations of U.S. Steel under the terms of the deal.They helped offset drops for defense contractors, which gave back some of their jumps from Friday. Lockheed Martin fell 4%, and Northrop Grumman sank 3.7%.All told, the S&amp;P 500 rose 56.14 points to 6,033.11. The Dow Jones Industrial Average added 317.30 to 42,515.09, and the Nasdaq composite gained 294.39 to 19,701.21.In stock markets abroad, indexes rose across most of Europe and Asia.Stocks climbed 0.7% in Hong Kong and 0.3% in Shanghai after data showed stronger Chinese consumer spending for May but slower growth in factory activity and investment.South Korea's Kospi climbed 1.8%, and Japan's Nikkei 225 rallied 1.3% for two of the world's bigger gains.___AP Writer Jiang Junzhe contributed.

Wall Street recovers from Friday's shock: Stocks rise, oil prices ease

By BRENT MARTIN St. Joseph Post

Eastern Kansas
Congressman Derek Schmidt says the United States must move to protect its
personnel in wake of Israel’s strikes against Iran.

“It’s a very
difficult time and I’m hopeful that the Iranian nuclear program is now disabled
and also that this confrontation can be contained,” Schmidt tells Joseph Post.

Early Friday
morning, Israel launched a targeted attack on Iran’s nuclear program, both
material and personnel. It has continued its assault on Iran through the past
weekend. A counter-attack by Iran killed at least eight in Israel early Monday.
Israel warned residents of Tehran to evacuate as the conflict entered its fourth
day.

Israeli Prime
Minister, Benjamin Netanyahu, vowed to neutralize any threat from Iran’s
nuclear program.

Schmidt says the U.S.
must be clear Israel made this decision on its own.

“The United States
has made clear that this was a decision of the Israelis, not of the United
States government, and that the Israelis were within their rights to ensure that
Iran, which has obviously been overtly hostile to Israel, has launched attacks
on Israel within recent months, does not become a nuclear-capable power,”
Schmidt says.

Schmidt says the
Trump Administration has warned Iran not to harm any Americans in its
retaliation.

“We should defend
our own,” Schmidt says. “It is an America first policy and that ought to be our
top priority as well as obviously trying to deescalate at this point and prevent
the spread of the fighting.” 

Schmidt says the United
States has long opposed Iran becoming a nuclear power.

You can follow&nbsp;Brent on X @GBrentKFEQ and St. Joseph Post @StJosephPost.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/6/1750102265434.png" alt="File photo Kansas 2nd District Congressman Derek Schmidt" />
 <figcaption>File photo Kansas 2nd District Congressman Derek Schmidt</figcaption>
 </figure>By BRENT MARTIN St. Joseph PostEastern Kansas
Congressman Derek Schmidt says the United States must move to protect its
personnel in wake of Israel’s strikes against Iran.“It’s a very
difficult time and I’m hopeful that the Iranian nuclear program is now disabled
and also that this confrontation can be contained,” Schmidt tells Joseph Post.Early Friday
morning, Israel launched a targeted attack on Iran’s nuclear program, both
material and personnel. It has continued its assault on Iran through the past
weekend. A counter-attack by Iran killed at least eight in Israel early Monday.
Israel warned residents of Tehran to evacuate as the conflict entered its fourth
day.Israeli Prime
Minister, Benjamin Netanyahu, vowed to neutralize any threat from Iran’s
nuclear program.Schmidt says the U.S.
must be clear Israel made this decision on its own.“The United States
has made clear that this was a decision of the Israelis, not of the United
States government, and that the Israelis were within their rights to ensure that
Iran, which has obviously been overtly hostile to Israel, has launched attacks
on Israel within recent months, does not become a nuclear-capable power,”
Schmidt says.Schmidt says the
Trump Administration has warned Iran not to harm any Americans in its
retaliation.“We should defend
our own,” Schmidt says. “It is an America first policy and that ought to be our
top priority as well as obviously trying to deescalate at this point and prevent
the spread of the fighting.” Schmidt says the United
States has long opposed Iran becoming a nuclear power.You can follow&nbsp;Brent on X @GBrentKFEQ and St. Joseph Post @StJosephPost.

Kan. Congressman:  US must protect its own in Israel-Iran conflict

By NADIA LATHAN Associated Press/Report for America

AUSTIN, Texas (AP) — Juneteenth celebrations have been scaled back this year due to funding shortfalls as companies and municipalities across the country reconsider their support for diversity, equity and inclusion initiatives.

Canceled federal grants and businesses moving away from so-called brand activism have hit the bottom line of parades and other events heading into Thursday's federal holiday, which celebrates the end of slavery in the United States. The shrinking financial support coincides with many companies severing ties with LGBTQ celebrations for Pride this year and President Donald Trump's efforts to squash DEI programs throughout the federal government.

In Denver, for example, more than a dozen companies backed out of supporting the Juneteenth Music Festival, which is one of the city's biggest celebrations of the holiday, according to Norman Harris, executive director of JMF Corporation, which puts on the event.

"There were quite a few sponsors who pulled back their investments or let us know they couldn't or wouldn't be in a position to support this year," said Harris, who has overseen the event for more than a decade.

The festival, which takes place in the historically Black Five Points neighborhood, has been scaled back to one day instead of two because of the budget shortfall. It has only been able to stay afloat thanks to donations from individuals and foundations.

"Thankfully, there was a wide range of support that came when we made the announcement that the celebration is in jeopardy," Harris said.

Juneteenth celebrates the day the last enslaved people in Texas were told they were free on June 19, 1865, two years after President Abraham Lincoln's Emancipation Proclamation. The day has been celebrated by Black Americans for generations, including in Harris' family, but became more widely celebrated after becoming a federal holiday in 2021.

After the 2020 murder of George Floyd, many companies pursued efforts to make their branding more inclusive, but it has slowed down over the past few years after some received blowback from conservatives and because many companies didn't see it as an important part of their revenue stream, said Dionne Nickerson, a professor in marketing at Emory University.

Some companies can no longer afford to support Juneteenth celebrations because they just don't have the money given the economic uncertainty, according to Sonya Grier, a marketing professor at American University.

"It's a whole confluence of issues," Grier said.

Many state and local governments hold or help fund celebrations, but some decided not to this year.

The governor's office in West Virginia stated that the state won't be hosting any Juneteenth events this year for the first time since 2017 due to a budget deficit. Republican Gov. Patrick Morrisey last month signed a bill to end all diversity programs.

"Due to the continued fiscal challenges facing West Virginia, state government will not be sponsoring any formal activities," deputy press secretary Drew Galang said in an email.

City Council members in Scottsdale, Arizona, dissolved their DEI office in February, which led to the cancellation of the city's annual Juneteenth festival.

Event organizers in Colorado Springs, Colorado, had to move locations due to fewer sponsors and cuts in city funding, said Jennifer Smith, a planner for the Southern Colorado Juneteenth Festival.

Around five companies sponsored the event this year, compared to dozens in years prior, Smith said.

"They have said their budgets have been cut because of DEI," and that they can no longer afford it, she said.

Some groups have also mentioned safety concerns. Planners in Bend, Oregon, cited "an increasingly volatile political climate" in a statement about why they canceled this year's celebration.

Many local organizations have also had their budgets slashed after the National Endowment for the Arts pulled funding for numerous grants in May.

The Cooper Family Foundation throws one of the largest Juneteenth celebrations in San Diego each year. It was one of dozens of groups told by the NEA in May that its $25,000 grant was being rescinded.

The email said the event no longer aligned with the agency's priorities, said Maliya Jones, who works for the foundation.

The grant money went toward paying for arts and dance performers. The event will still take place this year, but members of the Cooper family will have to divide up covering the costs, said Marla Cooper, who leads the foundation.

"That's $25,000 we have to figure out how we're going to pay for," Cooper said.

"We will always have Juneteenth. And we will work it out," she said.

Lathan is a corps member for The Associated Press/Report for America Statehouse News Initiative. Report for America is a nonprofit national service program that places journalists in local newsrooms to report on undercovered issues.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/6/1685725545610.jpeg" alt=" " />
 <figcaption> </figcaption>
 </figure>By NADIA LATHAN Associated Press/Report for AmericaAUSTIN, Texas (AP) — Juneteenth celebrations have been scaled back this year due to funding shortfalls as companies and municipalities across the country reconsider their support for diversity, equity and inclusion initiatives.Canceled federal grants and businesses moving away from so-called brand activism have hit the bottom line of parades and other events heading into Thursday's federal holiday, which celebrates the end of slavery in the United States. The shrinking financial support coincides with many companies severing ties with LGBTQ celebrations for Pride this year and President Donald Trump's efforts to squash DEI programs throughout the federal government.In Denver, for example, more than a dozen companies backed out of supporting the Juneteenth Music Festival, which is one of the city's biggest celebrations of the holiday, according to Norman Harris, executive director of JMF Corporation, which puts on the event."There were quite a few sponsors who pulled back their investments or let us know they couldn't or wouldn't be in a position to support this year," said Harris, who has overseen the event for more than a decade.The festival, which takes place in the historically Black Five Points neighborhood, has been scaled back to one day instead of two because of the budget shortfall. It has only been able to stay afloat thanks to donations from individuals and foundations."Thankfully, there was a wide range of support that came when we made the announcement that the celebration is in jeopardy," Harris said.Juneteenth celebrates the day the last enslaved people in Texas were told they were free on June 19, 1865, two years after President Abraham Lincoln's Emancipation Proclamation. The day has been celebrated by Black Americans for generations, including in Harris' family, but became more widely celebrated after becoming a federal holiday in 2021.After the 2020 murder of George Floyd, many companies pursued efforts to make their branding more inclusive, but it has slowed down over the past few years after some received blowback from conservatives and because many companies didn't see it as an important part of their revenue stream, said Dionne Nickerson, a professor in marketing at Emory University.Some companies can no longer afford to support Juneteenth celebrations because they just don't have the money given the economic uncertainty, according to Sonya Grier, a marketing professor at American University."It's a whole confluence of issues," Grier said.Rollback of local supportMany state and local governments hold or help fund celebrations, but some decided not to this year.The governor's office in West Virginia stated that the state won't be hosting any Juneteenth events this year for the first time since 2017 due to a budget deficit. Republican Gov. Patrick Morrisey last month signed a bill to end all diversity programs."Due to the continued fiscal challenges facing West Virginia, state government will not be sponsoring any formal activities," deputy press secretary Drew Galang said in an email.City Council members in Scottsdale, Arizona, dissolved their DEI office in February, which led to the cancellation of the city's annual Juneteenth festival.Event organizers in Colorado Springs, Colorado, had to move locations due to fewer sponsors and cuts in city funding, said Jennifer Smith, a planner for the Southern Colorado Juneteenth Festival.Around five companies sponsored the event this year, compared to dozens in years prior, Smith said."They have said their budgets have been cut because of DEI," and that they can no longer afford it, she said.Some groups have also mentioned safety concerns. Planners in Bend, Oregon, cited "an increasingly volatile political climate" in a statement about why they canceled this year's celebration.Slashes in federal fundingMany local organizations have also had their budgets slashed after the National Endowment for the Arts pulled funding for numerous grants in May.The Cooper Family Foundation throws one of the largest Juneteenth celebrations in San Diego each year. It was one of dozens of groups told by the NEA in May that its $25,000 grant was being rescinded.The email said the event no longer aligned with the agency's priorities, said Maliya Jones, who works for the foundation.The grant money went toward paying for arts and dance performers. The event will still take place this year, but members of the Cooper family will have to divide up covering the costs, said Marla Cooper, who leads the foundation."That's $25,000 we have to figure out how we're going to pay for," Cooper said."We will always have Juneteenth. And we will work it out," she said.___Lathan is a corps member for The Associated Press/Report for America Statehouse News Initiative. Report for America is a nonprofit national service program that places journalists in local newsrooms to report on undercovered issues.

Juneteenth celebrations adapt after corporate sponsors pull support

MINNEAPOLIS (AP) — The man accused of&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/minnesota-shootings-lawmakers-suspect-21b2165404bc66f77dd5e0e36efeb065">killing a Minnesota</a>&nbsp;lawmaker and wounding another went to the homes of two other lawmakers to carry out more carnage on the night of the shootings, a federal prosecutor said.

But one of the other lawmakers was not home and the suspect left the other house after police arrived, acting U.S. Attorney Joseph Thompson said at a press conference Monday.

The suspect, Vance Boelter, surrendered to police Sunday after they found him in the woods near his home following a massive manhunt that began early Saturday near Minneapolis. He is accused of posing as a police officer and fatally shooting&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/minnesota-lawmakers-shot-hortman-d5b1788f4ad91c00e5b5b1c24707f2ce">former Democratic House Speaker Melissa Hortman</a>&nbsp;and her husband, Mark, in their home early Saturday in the northern Minneapolis suburbs. Authorities say he also shot Sen. John Hoffman, a Democrat, and his wife, Yvette. They were injured at their residence about 9 miles (about 15 kilometers) away.

The 57-year-old Boelter was charged with federal murder, stalking offenses. He already faces state charges, including murder and attempted murder.

“Boelter planned his attack carefully” by researching his intended victims and their families and conducting surveillance of their homes and taking notes, Thompson said. Though the targets were Democrats and elected officials, Thompson said it was too soon to speculate on any sort of political ideology that could explain his motives.

Thompson said it was too early to say if the Justice Department would seek the death penalty but noted that that was among the options available to the government based on the charges. The counts charged in the criminal complaint could be amended by prosecutors as they pursue a grand jury indictment as a prerequisite for bringing the case to trial.

Authorities declined to name the two other elected officials whom Boelter allegedly stalked but who escaped harm. But it was clear the shootings were politically motivated, they said..

“This was a targeted attack against individuals who answered the call to public service,” said Alvin Winston, the special agent in charge of the FBI’s Minneapolis field office. The resulting search, he said, was the largest manhunt in the history of the state.

THIS IS A BREAKING NEWS UPDATE. AP’s earlier story follows below.

MINNEAPOLIS (AP) — The man&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/minnesota-shootings-lawmakers-suspect-21b2165404bc66f77dd5e0e36efeb065">suspected of killing</a>&nbsp;a Minnesota lawmaker and wounding another crawled to officers in order to surrender Sunday after they found him in the woods near his home, bringing an end to a massive, nearly two-day search that put the entire state on edge.

Vance Boelter&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/photo-gallery/minnesota-lawmakers-shot-melissa-hortman-photos-47ba9efed6ea5585520a188450b5922c">was arrested and charged</a>&nbsp;with two counts of murder and two counts of attempted murder. Jail records show he was scheduled to appear in court Monday afternoon.

Hennepin County Attorney Mary Moriarty said during a news conference Monday that she plans to file first-degree murder charges against Boelter. The maximum penalty upon conviction of first-degree murder is life imprisonment without parole in Minnesota, which is not a death penalty state.

Authorities initially charged him with second-degree murder and attempted murder — the highest charges that could be filed in a criminal complaint when there is probable cause to believe a crime has been committed.

Boelter is accused of posing as a police officer and fatally shooting&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/minnesota-lawmakers-shot-hortman-d5b1788f4ad91c00e5b5b1c24707f2ce">former Democratic House Speaker Melissa Hortman</a>&nbsp;and her husband, Mark, in their home early Saturday in the northern Minneapolis suburbs.

Authorities say he also shot Sen. John Hoffman, a Democrat, and his wife, Yvette. They were injured at their residence about 9 miles (about 15 kilometers) away.

“One man’s unthinkable actions have altered the state of Minnesota,” Democratic Gov. Tim Walz said at a news conference after Boelter's arrest.

<a href="https://apnews.com/article/minnesota-lawmakers-shot-d7983e1e4f1a7573a487cab1a98cd172">The search for Boelter</a>&nbsp;was the “largest manhunt in the state's history,” Brooklyn Park Police Chief Mark Bruley said. It began when Brooklyn Park officers went to check on Hortman's home and saw her husband gunned down before the shooter fled.

Authorities on Sunday spotted a vehicle Boelter had been using abandoned in rural Sibley County, where he lived, and a police officer reported that he believed he saw Boelter running into the woods, Bruley said. Police called in 20 different tactical teams, divvying up the area and searching for him.

During the search, police said they confirmed someone was in the woods and searched for hours, using a helicopter and officers on foot, until they found Boelter. He gave himself up to police, crawling out to officers in the woods before he was handcuffed and taken into custody in a field, authorities said.

Boelter gave up after being surrounded by police on the ground and in the air, said Drew Evans, superintendent of the Minnesota Bureau of Criminal Apprehension.

Jail records show Boelter was booked into the Hennepin County Jail early Monday and included two mug shots of Boelter wearing an orange prison shirt.

Drew Evans, superintendent of the state Bureau of Criminal Apprehension, said the violence likely would've continued had Brooklyn Park officers not checked on Hortman's home, causing Boelter to flee.

The Hoffmans were attacked first at their home in Champlin early Saturday. A criminal complaint unsealed after Boelter's arrest indicated their adult daughter called 911 to say a masked person had come to the door and shot her parents.

After police in nearby Brooklyn Park learned that a lawmaker had been shot, they sent patrol officers to check on the Hortmans’ home.

Brooklyn Park police officers arrived just in time to see Boelter shoot Mark Hortman through the open door of the home and exchanged gunfire with Boelter, who fled into the home before escaping, the complaint said. Melissa Hortman was found dead inside, according to the document.

Authorities said Boelter posed as a police officer, even allegedly altering a vehicle to make it look like a police car.

A Minnesota lawmaker said that Hortman’s dog had to be euthanized after being shot in the attack.

“Her children had to put down him after learning their parents had been murdered, ” Rep. Erin Koegel posted on the social media platform X. “Gilbert wasn’t going to survive. Melissa loved that dog. She trained him as a service dog. He flunked out of school and she was so happy he failed so he could stay!”

Authorities did not give a motive for the shootings as they announced Boelter's arrest.

A list of about 70 names was found in writings recovered from the fake police vehicle at the crime scene, said two law enforcement officials who spoke to The Associated Press on condition of anonymity because they were not authorized to discuss details of the ongoing investigation. The writings and list of names included prominent state and federal lawmakers and community leaders, along with abortion rights advocates and information about health care facilities, according to the officials.

A Minnesota official told AP lawmakers who had been outspoken in favor of abortion rights were on the list. The official spoke on the condition of anonymity because the investigation was ongoing.

Boelter is a former political appointee who served on the same state workforce development board as Hoffman, records show, though it was not clear if or how well they knew each other.

Just hours after the shootings, Boelter texted friends to apologize for his actions, though he didn't say what he had done.

“I’m going to be gone for a while. May be dead shortly, so I just want to let you know I love you guys both and I wish it hadn’t gone this way," he wrote in messages viewed by the AP.

The shootings&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/political-violence-assassination-minnesota-trump-3c750cff0749633872ab6101bfa23b23">come</a>&nbsp;as&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/arson-pennsylvania-governor-political-violence-388da01e84661fb12ac79c626b0004eb">political leaders nationwide</a>&nbsp;have been attacked, harassed and intimidated amid deep political divisions.&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/minnesota-shooting-tina-smith-amy-klobuchar-6fada373a3d089466b1be4aaf9371983">Lawmakers said they were disturbed</a>&nbsp;by the attacks as Twin Cities residents mourned.

On Sunday, U.S. Sen. Amy Klobuchar shared a statement from Yvette Hoffman expressing appreciation for the outpouring of public support.

“John is enduring many surgeries right now and is closer every hour to being out of the woods,” Yvette Hoffman said in a&nbsp;<a href="https://x.com/amyklobuchar/status/1934383694342434882?s=46&amp;t=Aj2rKECUjm-cecTWvlgvjw">text that Klobuchar posted</a>&nbsp;on social media. “He took 9 bullet hits. I took 8 and we are both incredibly lucky to be alive. We are gutted and devastated by the loss of Melissa and Mark.”

Brightly colored flowers and small American flags were placed Sunday on the gray marbled stone of the Minnesota State Capitol along with a photo of&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/minnesota-lawmakers-shot-197b8073b66449297986f8276e6dcfc9">the Hortmans</a>.

Pam Stein came with flowers and knelt by the memorial. An emotional Stein called Hortman an “absolute powerhouse” and “the real unsung hero of Minnesota government.”

Karnowski reported from Minneapolis, and Balsamo and Durkin Richer reported from Washington. Associated Press writers Michael Biesecker in Washington; Jim Mustian in New York; Sophia Tareen in Chicago, Margery Beck in Omaha, Nebraska, and Makiya Seminera in Raleigh, North Carolina, contributed to this report.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/6/1750067581415.png" alt=" " />
 <figcaption> </figcaption>
 </figure>MINNEAPOLIS (AP) — The man accused of&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/minnesota-shootings-lawmakers-suspect-21b2165404bc66f77dd5e0e36efeb065">killing a Minnesota</a>&nbsp;lawmaker and wounding another went to the homes of two other lawmakers to carry out more carnage on the night of the shootings, a federal prosecutor said.But one of the other lawmakers was not home and the suspect left the other house after police arrived, acting U.S. Attorney Joseph Thompson said at a press conference Monday.The suspect, Vance Boelter, surrendered to police Sunday after they found him in the woods near his home following a massive manhunt that began early Saturday near Minneapolis. He is accused of posing as a police officer and fatally shooting&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/minnesota-lawmakers-shot-hortman-d5b1788f4ad91c00e5b5b1c24707f2ce">former Democratic House Speaker Melissa Hortman</a>&nbsp;and her husband, Mark, in their home early Saturday in the northern Minneapolis suburbs. Authorities say he also shot Sen. John Hoffman, a Democrat, and his wife, Yvette. They were injured at their residence about 9 miles (about 15 kilometers) away.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/6/1750068208061.png" alt="&nbsp;Vance Boelter, 57, was captured by law enforcement Sunday, June 15, 2025 in Sibley County. (Photo courtesy of Ramsey County Sheriff’s Office)" />
 <figcaption>&nbsp;Vance Boelter, 57, was captured by law enforcement Sunday, June 15, 2025 in Sibley County. (Photo courtesy of Ramsey County Sheriff’s Office)</figcaption>
 </figure>The 57-year-old Boelter was charged with federal murder, stalking offenses. He already faces state charges, including murder and attempted murder.“Boelter planned his attack carefully” by researching his intended victims and their families and conducting surveillance of their homes and taking notes, Thompson said. Though the targets were Democrats and elected officials, Thompson said it was too soon to speculate on any sort of political ideology that could explain his motives.Thompson said it was too early to say if the Justice Department would seek the death penalty but noted that that was among the options available to the government based on the charges. The counts charged in the criminal complaint could be amended by prosecutors as they pursue a grand jury indictment as a prerequisite for bringing the case to trial.Authorities declined to name the two other elected officials whom Boelter allegedly stalked but who escaped harm. But it was clear the shootings were politically motivated, they said..“This was a targeted attack against individuals who answered the call to public service,” said Alvin Winston, the special agent in charge of the FBI’s Minneapolis field office. The resulting search, he said, was the largest manhunt in the history of the state.THIS IS A BREAKING NEWS UPDATE. AP’s earlier story follows below.MINNEAPOLIS (AP) — The man&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/minnesota-shootings-lawmakers-suspect-21b2165404bc66f77dd5e0e36efeb065">suspected of killing</a>&nbsp;a Minnesota lawmaker and wounding another crawled to officers in order to surrender Sunday after they found him in the woods near his home, bringing an end to a massive, nearly two-day search that put the entire state on edge.Vance Boelter&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/photo-gallery/minnesota-lawmakers-shot-melissa-hortman-photos-47ba9efed6ea5585520a188450b5922c">was arrested and charged</a>&nbsp;with two counts of murder and two counts of attempted murder. Jail records show he was scheduled to appear in court Monday afternoon.Hennepin County Attorney Mary Moriarty said during a news conference Monday that she plans to file first-degree murder charges against Boelter. The maximum penalty upon conviction of first-degree murder is life imprisonment without parole in Minnesota, which is not a death penalty state.Authorities initially charged him with second-degree murder and attempted murder — the highest charges that could be filed in a criminal complaint when there is probable cause to believe a crime has been committed.Boelter is accused of posing as a police officer and fatally shooting&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/minnesota-lawmakers-shot-hortman-d5b1788f4ad91c00e5b5b1c24707f2ce">former Democratic House Speaker Melissa Hortman</a>&nbsp;and her husband, Mark, in their home early Saturday in the northern Minneapolis suburbs.Authorities say he also shot Sen. John Hoffman, a Democrat, and his wife, Yvette. They were injured at their residence about 9 miles (about 15 kilometers) away.“One man’s unthinkable actions have altered the state of Minnesota,” Democratic Gov. Tim Walz said at a news conference after Boelter's arrest.<a href="https://apnews.com/article/minnesota-lawmakers-shot-d7983e1e4f1a7573a487cab1a98cd172">The search for Boelter</a>&nbsp;was the “largest manhunt in the state's history,” Brooklyn Park Police Chief Mark Bruley said. It began when Brooklyn Park officers went to check on Hortman's home and saw her husband gunned down before the shooter fled.Authorities on Sunday spotted a vehicle Boelter had been using abandoned in rural Sibley County, where he lived, and a police officer reported that he believed he saw Boelter running into the woods, Bruley said. Police called in 20 different tactical teams, divvying up the area and searching for him.During the search, police said they confirmed someone was in the woods and searched for hours, using a helicopter and officers on foot, until they found Boelter. He gave himself up to police, crawling out to officers in the woods before he was handcuffed and taken into custody in a field, authorities said.Boelter gave up after being surrounded by police on the ground and in the air, said Drew Evans, superintendent of the Minnesota Bureau of Criminal Apprehension.Jail records show Boelter was booked into the Hennepin County Jail early Monday and included two mug shots of Boelter wearing an orange prison shirt.<h2>A targeted attack</h2>Drew Evans, superintendent of the state Bureau of Criminal Apprehension, said the violence likely would've continued had Brooklyn Park officers not checked on Hortman's home, causing Boelter to flee.The Hoffmans were attacked first at their home in Champlin early Saturday. A criminal complaint unsealed after Boelter's arrest indicated their adult daughter called 911 to say a masked person had come to the door and shot her parents.After police in nearby Brooklyn Park learned that a lawmaker had been shot, they sent patrol officers to check on the Hortmans’ home.Brooklyn Park police officers arrived just in time to see Boelter shoot Mark Hortman through the open door of the home and exchanged gunfire with Boelter, who fled into the home before escaping, the complaint said. Melissa Hortman was found dead inside, according to the document.Authorities said Boelter posed as a police officer, even allegedly altering a vehicle to make it look like a police car.A Minnesota lawmaker said that Hortman’s dog had to be euthanized after being shot in the attack.“Her children had to put down him after learning their parents had been murdered, ” Rep. Erin Koegel posted on the social media platform X. “Gilbert wasn’t going to survive. Melissa loved that dog. She trained him as a service dog. He flunked out of school and she was so happy he failed so he could stay!”<h2>No details on motive</h2>Authorities did not give a motive for the shootings as they announced Boelter's arrest.A list of about 70 names was found in writings recovered from the fake police vehicle at the crime scene, said two law enforcement officials who spoke to The Associated Press on condition of anonymity because they were not authorized to discuss details of the ongoing investigation. The writings and list of names included prominent state and federal lawmakers and community leaders, along with abortion rights advocates and information about health care facilities, according to the officials.A Minnesota official told AP lawmakers who had been outspoken in favor of abortion rights were on the list. The official spoke on the condition of anonymity because the investigation was ongoing.Boelter is a former political appointee who served on the same state workforce development board as Hoffman, records show, though it was not clear if or how well they knew each other.Just hours after the shootings, Boelter texted friends to apologize for his actions, though he didn't say what he had done.“I’m going to be gone for a while. May be dead shortly, so I just want to let you know I love you guys both and I wish it hadn’t gone this way," he wrote in messages viewed by the AP.<h2>An escalation in political violence</h2>The shootings&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/political-violence-assassination-minnesota-trump-3c750cff0749633872ab6101bfa23b23">come</a>&nbsp;as&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/arson-pennsylvania-governor-political-violence-388da01e84661fb12ac79c626b0004eb">political leaders nationwide</a>&nbsp;have been attacked, harassed and intimidated amid deep political divisions.&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/minnesota-shooting-tina-smith-amy-klobuchar-6fada373a3d089466b1be4aaf9371983">Lawmakers said they were disturbed</a>&nbsp;by the attacks as Twin Cities residents mourned.On Sunday, U.S. Sen. Amy Klobuchar shared a statement from Yvette Hoffman expressing appreciation for the outpouring of public support.“John is enduring many surgeries right now and is closer every hour to being out of the woods,” Yvette Hoffman said in a&nbsp;<a href="https://x.com/amyklobuchar/status/1934383694342434882?s=46&amp;t=Aj2rKECUjm-cecTWvlgvjw">text that Klobuchar posted</a>&nbsp;on social media. “He took 9 bullet hits. I took 8 and we are both incredibly lucky to be alive. We are gutted and devastated by the loss of Melissa and Mark.”Brightly colored flowers and small American flags were placed Sunday on the gray marbled stone of the Minnesota State Capitol along with a photo of&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/minnesota-lawmakers-shot-197b8073b66449297986f8276e6dcfc9">the Hortmans</a>.Pam Stein came with flowers and knelt by the memorial. An emotional Stein called Hortman an “absolute powerhouse” and “the real unsung hero of Minnesota government.”___Karnowski reported from Minneapolis, and Balsamo and Durkin Richer reported from Washington. Associated Press writers Michael Biesecker in Washington; Jim Mustian in New York; Sophia Tareen in Chicago, Margery Beck in Omaha, Nebraska, and Makiya Seminera in Raleigh, North Carolina, contributed to this report.

Prosecutor: Suspect in shooting of two MN state lawmakers had planned to attack others

KANSAS CITY—Law enforcement investigating a fatal mass shooting in Kansas City, Missouri have identified the victim as 24-year-old&nbsp;Monique K. Smith, according to&nbsp;KCKPD Sergeant Phil DiMartino.

Just after 1:30a.m. Saturday, patrol officers were dispatched to a shooting at&nbsp; 35th and Prospect.

First responders were directed to the gas station parking lot. They located multiple victims suffering from gunshot wounds.&nbsp; Officers began performing live saving measures and ordered EMS to the scene. On scene officers located a total of four victims. An adult female victim, later identified as Smith, had critical injuries, one adult male victim had critical injuries, and two adult male victims had non life threatening injuries, according to DiMartino.

 All of the victims were transported to local hospitals. Smith was pronounced deceased a short time later by medical personnel.

Additional officers responded to a separate shooting, a short distance away, in the 2000 block of East Linwood where an adult male victim was located. 

It was determined the victim was related to the scene at 35th and Prospect. He was transported to a local hospital with critical injuries. This is being investigated as a homicide and there is no one in custody at this point, according to DiMartino.

Detectives are trying to determine what led up to the shots being fired and the victims being struck.&nbsp; Police have not reported an arrest or suspect details.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/6/1749904887891.png" alt=" " />
 <figcaption> </figcaption>
 </figure>KANSAS CITY—Law enforcement investigating a fatal mass shooting in Kansas City, Missouri have identified the victim as 24-year-old&nbsp;Monique K. Smith, according to&nbsp;KCKPD Sergeant Phil DiMartino.Just after 1:30a.m. Saturday, patrol officers were dispatched to a shooting at&nbsp; 35th and Prospect.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/6/1749903126084.png" alt=" " />
 <figcaption> </figcaption>
 </figure>First responders were directed to the gas station parking lot. They located multiple victims suffering from gunshot wounds.&nbsp; Officers began performing live saving measures and ordered EMS to the scene. On scene officers located a total of four victims. An adult female victim, later identified as Smith, had critical injuries, one adult male victim had critical injuries, and two adult male victims had non life threatening injuries, according to DiMartino.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/6/1749903072954.png" alt=" " />
 <figcaption> </figcaption>
 </figure> All of the victims were transported to local hospitals. Smith was pronounced deceased a short time later by medical personnel.Additional officers responded to a separate shooting, a short distance away, in the 2000 block of East Linwood where an adult male victim was located. It was determined the victim was related to the scene at 35th and Prospect. He was transported to a local hospital with critical injuries. This is being investigated as a homicide and there is no one in custody at this point, according to DiMartino.Detectives are trying to determine what led up to the shots being fired and the victims being struck.&nbsp; Police have not reported an arrest or suspect details.

Police ID woman who died in mass shooting in Kansas City

SEDGWICK COUNTY —A Kansas teen convicted of her role in a violent acid attack was sentenced on Friday.&nbsp;

Judge Tyler Rousch sentenced&nbsp;Ye'Kira Acoya Hollins, who was 18, at the time of the crime, to 34 months in prison and 24 months of post-release supervision, according to the Sedgwick County District Attorney's office.

Last month, a jury found Hollins guilty of aggravated battery.

In May of 2024, police responded to a disturbance in the 400 block of N Dodge in Wichita, according to Wichita Police Captain Aaron Moses. The victim in this case, an 18-year-old girl later arrived at an area hospital with second degree burns to the face and neck believed to be caused by a suspect throwing an acidic liquid on her during a fight.&nbsp;

Immediately following the incident, investigators with the Wichita Police Felony Assault unit along with patrol officers began looking for the suspects. On June 5, officers with the Patrol North Community Response Team located and arrested Hollins and accomplice&nbsp;Tayronnia Jontashia West. In March of 2025, police also arrested a 17-year-old girl in connection with the case.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/6/1717690911383.png" alt="Hollins photo Sedgwick County" />
 <figcaption>Hollins photo Sedgwick County</figcaption>
 </figure>SEDGWICK COUNTY —A Kansas teen convicted of her role in a violent acid attack was sentenced on Friday.&nbsp;Judge Tyler Rousch sentenced&nbsp;Ye'Kira Acoya Hollins, who was 18, at the time of the crime, to 34 months in prison and 24 months of post-release supervision, according to the Sedgwick County District Attorney's office.Last month, a jury found Hollins guilty of aggravated battery.In May of 2024, police responded to a disturbance in the 400 block of N Dodge in Wichita, according to Wichita Police Captain Aaron Moses. The victim in this case, an 18-year-old girl later arrived at an area hospital with second degree burns to the face and neck believed to be caused by a suspect throwing an acidic liquid on her during a fight.&nbsp;Immediately following the incident, investigators with the Wichita Police Felony Assault unit along with patrol officers began looking for the suspects. On June 5, officers with the Patrol North Community Response Team located and arrested Hollins and accomplice&nbsp;Tayronnia Jontashia West. In March of 2025, police also arrested a 17-year-old girl in connection with the case.

Prison time for acid attack that burned Kansas teen's face

By:&nbsp;<a href="https://kansasreflector.com/author/mchilson/">Morgan Chilson</a>&nbsp;and&nbsp;<a href="https://kansasreflector.com/author/sherman-smith/">Sherman Smith</a>&nbsp; <a href="https://kansasreflector.com/2025/02/24/gov-laura-kelly-skeptical-kansas-houses-anti-tenure-legislation-will-reach-her-desk/">Kansas Reflector</a>

TOPEKA — Fifth-generation Kansan Christy Davis announced Saturday she is exploring a run against incumbent Republican U.S. Sen. Roger Marshall, who she said is spending his time flattering the “tyrant in the White House” instead of standing up for Kansans.

Davis, a Democrat, made the announcement to the hundreds of people gathered for the No Kings rally at the state Capitol. She served as White House appointee for U.S. Department of Agriculture Rural Development during the Biden administration and previously lost in the Democratic primary in 2020 when she ran for the U.S. House in the 1st District against Kali Barnett. Republican Tracey Mann won that seat.

Davis and her family live in Cottonwood Falls.

“Unfortunately, the rights Kansans have fought for are being threatened by a tyrant and a Congress that is scared to hold him to account,” Davis said. “This isn’t the America that is the land of the free and the home of the brave. Nothing about this is our values. We didn’t vote for this. We need to stand together, regardless of political parties, and remember who we are — not just Americans, but we’re Kansans, and we deserve better.”

Davis criticized Marshall for failing to protect Kansas and its economy.

“The administration is clawing back funding for our public schools and dismantling the entire farm economy,” she said. “And what is Senator Marshall doing in response? He doesn’t even live here. Not what the Constitution says he’s supposed to. Instead of representing us and checking the power of the tyrant in the White House, he’s trying to flatter him.”

Davis’ words drew chants of “vote him out” from the crowd, which was gathered to protest the Trump administration.

On Saturday, Newsmax posted an interview with Marshall honoring the 250th birthday of the Army. He also sent birthday wishes to Trump.

“It’s been just the honor of a lifetime to work beside him to make America great again,” Marshall said.

In 2016, Marshall, who is a obstetrician and gynecologist, entered politics with a run against incumbent Republican U.S. Rep. Tim Huelskamp, defeating him in the primary and later winning the 1st District seat.&nbsp; In 2019, he announced he would run for the seat that U.S. Sen. Pat Roberts was vacating. He won the primary and eventually the seat, beating out Democrat Barbara Bollier.

Devon Welcher, of Topeka, also revealed her intent to run for office, telling the crowd she plans to run for governor as an independent candidate.

In an interview, Welcher said she is running because “Kansas is in trouble,” and that voters should know, “I’m the real deal.”

“I have enthusiasm, and grace, and I am charismatic,” Welcher said.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/6/1750078200149.png" alt=" Christy Davis addresses the No Kings rally on June 14, 2025, from the south steps of the Statehouse in Topeka, where she announced she will explore a U.S. Senate run as a Democrat against incumbent Republican U.S. Sen. Roger Marshall. (Sherman Smith/Kansas Reflector)" />
 <figcaption> Christy Davis addresses the No Kings rally on June 14, 2025, from the south steps of the Statehouse in Topeka, where she announced she will explore a U.S. Senate run as a Democrat against incumbent Republican U.S. Sen. Roger Marshall. (Sherman Smith/Kansas Reflector)</figcaption>
 </figure>By:&nbsp;<a href="https://kansasreflector.com/author/mchilson/">Morgan Chilson</a>&nbsp;and&nbsp;<a href="https://kansasreflector.com/author/sherman-smith/">Sherman Smith</a>&nbsp; <a href="https://kansasreflector.com/2025/02/24/gov-laura-kelly-skeptical-kansas-houses-anti-tenure-legislation-will-reach-her-desk/">Kansas Reflector</a>TOPEKA — Fifth-generation Kansan Christy Davis announced Saturday she is exploring a run against incumbent Republican U.S. Sen. Roger Marshall, who she said is spending his time flattering the “tyrant in the White House” instead of standing up for Kansans.Davis, a Democrat, made the announcement to the hundreds of people gathered for the No Kings rally at the state Capitol. She served as White House appointee for U.S. Department of Agriculture Rural Development during the Biden administration and previously lost in the Democratic primary in 2020 when she ran for the U.S. House in the 1st District against Kali Barnett. Republican Tracey Mann won that seat.Davis and her family live in Cottonwood Falls.“Unfortunately, the rights Kansans have fought for are being threatened by a tyrant and a Congress that is scared to hold him to account,” Davis said. “This isn’t the America that is the land of the free and the home of the brave. Nothing about this is our values. We didn’t vote for this. We need to stand together, regardless of political parties, and remember who we are — not just Americans, but we’re Kansans, and we deserve better.”Davis criticized Marshall for failing to protect Kansas and its economy.“The administration is clawing back funding for our public schools and dismantling the entire farm economy,” she said. “And what is Senator Marshall doing in response? He doesn’t even live here. Not what the Constitution says he’s supposed to. Instead of representing us and checking the power of the tyrant in the White House, he’s trying to flatter him.”Davis’ words drew chants of “vote him out” from the crowd, which was gathered to protest the Trump administration.On Saturday, Newsmax posted an interview with Marshall honoring the 250th birthday of the Army. He also sent birthday wishes to Trump.“It’s been just the honor of a lifetime to work beside him to make America great again,” Marshall said.In 2016, Marshall, who is a obstetrician and gynecologist, entered politics with a run against incumbent Republican U.S. Rep. Tim Huelskamp, defeating him in the primary and later winning the 1st District seat.&nbsp; In 2019, he announced he would run for the seat that U.S. Sen. Pat Roberts was vacating. He won the primary and eventually the seat, beating out Democrat Barbara Bollier.Devon Welcher, of Topeka, also revealed her intent to run for office, telling the crowd she plans to run for governor as an independent candidate.In an interview, Welcher said she is running because “Kansas is in trouble,” and that voters should know, “I’m the real deal.”“I have enthusiasm, and grace, and I am charismatic,” Welcher said.

Kansas Democrat exploring run against U.S. Sen. Roger Marshall, accuses him of ‘flattering’ Trump

JOHNSON COUNTY—Law enforcement continue investigating a strong-arm robbery that occurred just after 11a.m. Friday near the 13500 block of South Black Bob Road in Olathe, according to Olathe Police Sergeant John Moncayo.

It was reported that two unknown subjects obtained money from an exterior ATM, and then fled the area in a black Jeep SUV, which was later recovered nearby.

A thorough area search was conducted, and no contact was made with the suspects.

The suspects were described as two males, with one wearing a black ski mask, black plaid hooded jacket, black jeans, white tennis shoes, and black gloves. The other suspect was wearing a black ski mask, white hoodie, red pants, white shoes, and black gloves. The suspects left with an undisclosed amount of cash. No weapon was seen during this incident, but the victim sustained minor injuries.

Anyone with information regarding this investigation is asked to call the Olathe Police Department at (913) 971-6363 or the TIPS Hotline at (816) 474-8477.&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/6/1749844130001.png" alt=" " />
 <figcaption> </figcaption>
 </figure>JOHNSON COUNTY—Law enforcement continue investigating a strong-arm robbery that occurred just after 11a.m. Friday near the 13500 block of South Black Bob Road in Olathe, according to Olathe Police Sergeant John Moncayo.It was reported that two unknown subjects obtained money from an exterior ATM, and then fled the area in a black Jeep SUV, which was later recovered nearby.A thorough area search was conducted, and no contact was made with the suspects.The suspects were described as two males, with one wearing a black ski mask, black plaid hooded jacket, black jeans, white tennis shoes, and black gloves. The other suspect was wearing a black ski mask, white hoodie, red pants, white shoes, and black gloves. The suspects left with an undisclosed amount of cash. No weapon was seen during this incident, but the victim sustained minor injuries.Anyone with information regarding this investigation is asked to call the Olathe Police Department at (913) 971-6363 or the TIPS Hotline at (816) 474-8477.&nbsp;

Suspects escape with cash after daytime, Kansas ATM robbery 

KANSAS CITY —Authorities are investigating a fatal accident that occurred just after 1:30p.m. Sunday in Kansas City.

The driver and sole occupant of a green Ford F150 parked the vehicle in a parking space in front of the Fast Stop, 7100 Eastwood Trafficway in Kansas City, Missouri, according to KCPD Captain Jake Becchina.

The driver was at the gas pumps getting fuel when for unknown reasons, the unoccupied Ford began to roll backwards out of the parking space. As the Ford was moving, the driver attempted to reenter the vehicle on the passenger side, fell to the ground and was run over by the moving wheels of the Ford. 

She was pronounced deceased at the scene. Police have not released her name.

This is fatality #33 compared to #48 at this time last year, according to Becchina.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/6/1750033417358.png" alt=" " />
 <figcaption> </figcaption>
 </figure>KANSAS CITY —Authorities are investigating a fatal accident that occurred just after 1:30p.m. Sunday in Kansas City.The driver and sole occupant of a green Ford F150 parked the vehicle in a parking space in front of the Fast Stop, 7100 Eastwood Trafficway in Kansas City, Missouri, according to KCPD Captain Jake Becchina.The driver was at the gas pumps getting fuel when for unknown reasons, the unoccupied Ford began to roll backwards out of the parking space. As the Ford was moving, the driver attempted to reenter the vehicle on the passenger side, fell to the ground and was run over by the moving wheels of the Ford. She was pronounced deceased at the scene. Police have not released her name.This is fatality #33 compared to #48 at this time last year, according to Becchina.

Woman dies after run over by own truck at KC gas station

BELLE PLAINE, Minn. (AP) — The man suspected of killing a Minnesota lawmaker and wounding another crawled to officers in surrender Sunday after they located him in the woods near his home, bringing an end to a massive, nearly two-day search that put the entire state on edge.

(Click below to watch statement from Minnesota Gov. Tim Walz)

Vance Boelter was arrested and charged with two counts of murder and two of attempted murder. He is accused of posing as a police officer and fatally shooting former Democratic&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/minnesota-lawmakers-shot-197b8073b66449297986f8276e6dcfc9">House Speaker Melissa Hortman</a>&nbsp;and her husband, Mark, in their home early Saturday in the northern Minneapolis suburbs.

The search for Boelter was the “largest manhunt in the state's history,” Brooklyn Park Police Chief Mark Bruley said. It began when Brooklyn Park officers went to check on Hortman's home and saw her husband gunned down before the shooter fled.

Authorities on Sunday located a vehicle Boelter was using abandoned in rural Sibley County, where he lived, and a police officer reported that he believed he saw Boelter running into the woods, Bruley said. Police set up a large perimeter and called in 20 different tactical teams, divvying up the area and searching for him.

During the search, police said they received information confirming someone was in the woods and searched for hours, using a helicopter and officers on foot, until they found Boelter. He surrendered to police, crawling out to officers in the woods before he was handcuffed and taken into custody in a field, authorities said.

Jail records show Boelter was booked into the Hennepin County Jail at 1:02 a.m. Central Time Monday and include two mug shots, one from the front and one from the side, of Boelter wearing an orange prison shirt.

Drew Evans, superintendent of the state Bureau of Criminal Apprehension, said the violence likely would've continued had Brooklyn Park offices not checked on Hortman's home, causing Boelter to flee.

The Hoffmans were attacked first at their home in Champin early Saturday. A criminal complaint unsealed after Boelter's arrest indicated their adult daughter called 911 just after 2 a.m. to say a masked person had come to the door and shot her parents.

Brooklyn Park police officers arrived just in time to see Boelter shoot Mark Hortman through the open door of the home, the complaint says. It says they exchanged gunfire with Boelter, who fled inside the home before escaping the scene. Melissa Hortman was found dead inside, the complaint said.

Authorities did not give a motive as they announced Boelter's arrest.

A list of about 70 names was found in writings recovered from the fake police vehicle that was left at the crime scene, said two law enforcement officials who spoke to The Associated Press on condition of anonymity because they were not authorized to discuss details of the ongoing investigation. The writings and list of names included prominent state and federal lawmakers and community leaders, along with abortion rights advocates and information about healthcare facilities, according to the officials.

Around 6 a.m. Saturday, Boelter texted friends to apologize for his actions, though he didn't say what he had done.

“I’m going to be gone for a while. May be dead shortly, so I just want to let you know I love you guys both and I wish it hadn’t gone this way," he wrote in messages viewed by AP.

The shootings&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/political-violence-assassination-minnesota-trump-3c750cff0749633872ab6101bfa23b23">come</a>&nbsp;as&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/arson-pennsylvania-governor-political-violence-388da01e84661fb12ac79c626b0004eb">political leaders nationwide</a>&nbsp;have been attacked, harassed and intimidated amid deep political divisions.&nbsp;<a href="https://lawmakers%20on%20sunday%20continued%20to%20reel%20from%20the%20shooting%20of%20two%20democratic%20minnesota%20state%20legislators%20in%20their%20homes%20that%20led%20to%20the%20death%20of%20one%20and%20her%20husband,%20contemplating%20a%20previously%20unthinkable%20world%20where%20democratically-elected%20representatives%20need%20full-time%20security%20details%20to%20protect%20them%20from%20the%20public./">Lawmakers said they were disturbed</a>&nbsp;by the attacks as Twin Cities residents mourned.

“This cannot be the norm. It cannot be the way that we deal with our political differences,” Walz said Sunday.

On Sunday evening, U.S. Sen. Amy Klobuchar shared a statement from Yvette Hoffman expressing appreciation for the outpouring of public support.

Brightly colored flowers and small American flags were placed Sunday on the gray marbled stone of the Minnesota State Capitol along with a photo of the Hortmans. People scrawled messages on small notes including, “You were our leader through the hardest of times. Rest in Power.”

Pam Stein came with flowers and kneeled by the memorial. An emotional Stein called Hortman an “absolute powerhouse” and “the real unsung hero of Minnesota government.”

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/6/1750067581415.png" alt=" " />
 <figcaption> </figcaption>
 </figure>BELLE PLAINE, Minn. (AP) — The man suspected of killing a Minnesota lawmaker and wounding another crawled to officers in surrender Sunday after they located him in the woods near his home, bringing an end to a massive, nearly two-day search that put the entire state on edge.(Click below to watch statement from Minnesota Gov. Tim Walz)<div><iframe width="560" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/RxT-OeC-EWM?si=wRzlIVvlmnQekj8k&amp;start=223" title="YouTube video player" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share" referrerpolicy="strict-origin-when-cross-origin" allowfullscreen></iframe></div>Vance Boelter was arrested and charged with two counts of murder and two of attempted murder. He is accused of posing as a police officer and fatally shooting former Democratic&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/minnesota-lawmakers-shot-197b8073b66449297986f8276e6dcfc9">House Speaker Melissa Hortman</a>&nbsp;and her husband, Mark, in their home early Saturday in the northern Minneapolis suburbs.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/6/1750067563866.png" alt="Boelter photo Hennepin County Sheriff" />
 <figcaption>Boelter photo Hennepin County Sheriff</figcaption>
 </figure>Authorities say he also shot Sen. John Hoffman, a Democrat, and his wife, Yvette. They were injured at their residence about 9 miles (about 15 kilometers) away.“One man’s unthinkable actions have altered the state of Minnesota,” Democratic Gov. Tim Walz said at a news conference after Boelter's arrest.The search for Boelter was the “largest manhunt in the state's history,” Brooklyn Park Police Chief Mark Bruley said. It began when Brooklyn Park officers went to check on Hortman's home and saw her husband gunned down before the shooter fled.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/6/1750068083285.png" alt="&nbsp;Vance Boelter, 57, was captured by law enforcement Sunday, June 15, 2025 in Sibley County. (Photo courtesy of Ramsey County Sheriff’s Office)" />
 <figcaption>&nbsp;Vance Boelter, 57, was captured by law enforcement Sunday, June 15, 2025 in Sibley County. (Photo courtesy of Ramsey County Sheriff’s Office)</figcaption>
 </figure>Authorities on Sunday located a vehicle Boelter was using abandoned in rural Sibley County, where he lived, and a police officer reported that he believed he saw Boelter running into the woods, Bruley said. Police set up a large perimeter and called in 20 different tactical teams, divvying up the area and searching for him.During the search, police said they received information confirming someone was in the woods and searched for hours, using a helicopter and officers on foot, until they found Boelter. He surrendered to police, crawling out to officers in the woods before he was handcuffed and taken into custody in a field, authorities said.Jail records show Boelter was booked into the Hennepin County Jail at 1:02 a.m. Central Time Monday and include two mug shots, one from the front and one from the side, of Boelter wearing an orange prison shirt.<h2>A targeted attack</h2>Drew Evans, superintendent of the state Bureau of Criminal Apprehension, said the violence likely would've continued had Brooklyn Park offices not checked on Hortman's home, causing Boelter to flee.The Hoffmans were attacked first at their home in Champin early Saturday. A criminal complaint unsealed after Boelter's arrest indicated their adult daughter called 911 just after 2 a.m. to say a masked person had come to the door and shot her parents.After police in nearby Brooklyn Park learned that a lawmaker had been shot, they sent patrol officers to check on the Hortmans’ home.Brooklyn Park police officers arrived just in time to see Boelter shoot Mark Hortman through the open door of the home, the complaint says. It says they exchanged gunfire with Boelter, who fled inside the home before escaping the scene. Melissa Hortman was found dead inside, the complaint said.Authorities said Boelter posed as a police officer, even allegedly altering a vehicle to make it look like a police car.<h2>No details on motive</h2>Authorities did not give a motive as they announced Boelter's arrest.A list of about 70 names was found in writings recovered from the fake police vehicle that was left at the crime scene, said two law enforcement officials who spoke to The Associated Press on condition of anonymity because they were not authorized to discuss details of the ongoing investigation. The writings and list of names included prominent state and federal lawmakers and community leaders, along with abortion rights advocates and information about healthcare facilities, according to the officials.A Minnesota official told AP lawmakers who had been outspoken in favor of abortion rights were on the list. The official spoke on the condition of anonymity because the investigation was ongoing.Boelter is a former political appointee who served on the same state workforce development board as Hoffman, records show, though it was not clear if or how well they knew each other.Around 6 a.m. Saturday, Boelter texted friends to apologize for his actions, though he didn't say what he had done.“I’m going to be gone for a while. May be dead shortly, so I just want to let you know I love you guys both and I wish it hadn’t gone this way," he wrote in messages viewed by AP.<h2>An escalation in political violence</h2>The shootings&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/political-violence-assassination-minnesota-trump-3c750cff0749633872ab6101bfa23b23">come</a>&nbsp;as&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/arson-pennsylvania-governor-political-violence-388da01e84661fb12ac79c626b0004eb">political leaders nationwide</a>&nbsp;have been attacked, harassed and intimidated amid deep political divisions.&nbsp;<a href="https://lawmakers%20on%20sunday%20continued%20to%20reel%20from%20the%20shooting%20of%20two%20democratic%20minnesota%20state%20legislators%20in%20their%20homes%20that%20led%20to%20the%20death%20of%20one%20and%20her%20husband,%20contemplating%20a%20previously%20unthinkable%20world%20where%20democratically-elected%20representatives%20need%20full-time%20security%20details%20to%20protect%20them%20from%20the%20public./">Lawmakers said they were disturbed</a>&nbsp;by the attacks as Twin Cities residents mourned.“This cannot be the norm. It cannot be the way that we deal with our political differences,” Walz said Sunday.On Sunday evening, U.S. Sen. Amy Klobuchar shared a statement from Yvette Hoffman expressing appreciation for the outpouring of public support.“John is enduring many surgeries right now and is closer every hour to being out of the woods,” Yvette Hoffman said in a&nbsp;<a href="https://x.com/amyklobuchar/status/1934383694342434882?s=46&amp;t=Aj2rKECUjm-cecTWvlgvjw">text that Klobuchar posted</a>&nbsp;on social media. “He took 9 bullet hits. I took 8 and we are both incredibly lucky to be alive. We are gutted and devastated by the loss of Melissa and Mark.”Brightly colored flowers and small American flags were placed Sunday on the gray marbled stone of the Minnesota State Capitol along with a photo of the Hortmans. People scrawled messages on small notes including, “You were our leader through the hardest of times. Rest in Power.”Pam Stein came with flowers and kneeled by the memorial. An emotional Stein called Hortman an “absolute powerhouse” and “the real unsung hero of Minnesota government.”___Karnowski reported from Minneapolis, and Balsamo and Durkin Richer reported from Washington. Associated Press writers Michael Biesecker in Washington; Jim Mustian in New York; Sophia Tareen in Chicago and Makiya Seminera in Raleigh, N.C., contributed to this report.__