CAROLINE CUMMINGS:
00:00:35
Mourners stood as the caskets for Melissa and Mark Hortman were brought to the church altar. Heavenly Father, we thank you for the lives of Melissa and Mark Hortman.
CAROLINE CUMMINGS:
00:00:46
Former President Joe Biden and former Vice President Kamala Harris were in attendance. Governor Tim Walz honored Melissa Hortman for her two decades of public service. Melissa Hortman will be remembered as the most consequential speaker in Minnesota history. [BELL RINGS]
CAROLINE CUMMINGS:
00:01:01
A solemn procession followed, with Walz presenting the Hortman children the flags that flew over the State Capitol the day their parents were killed. She used her power to give a voice to people who didn't feel like they had a voice, and I hope that's how she's remembered.
CAROLINE CUMMINGS:
00:01:15
Thousands turned out at the Minnesota Capitol on Friday, where the couple was lying in state. Next to them, their beloved dog, Gilbert. The golden retriever was severely wounded in the attack and had to be euthanized. I'm sad, and I'm angry, and I wanted to come and stand quietly for a moment and appreciate them.
CAROLINE CUMMINGS:
00:01:38
The Hortmans were gunned down at their home two weeks ago, the suspect, Vance Boelter, accused of impersonating a police officer and wearing a mask. Prosecutors say he also shot and seriously wounded Minnesota State Senator John Hoffman and his wife. A manhunt for his arrest lasted two days. Police say Boelter had a hit list of 45 elected officials, all Democrats. He made a second federal court appearance yesterday, telling the judge he hasn't slept in 14 days, his lawyer complaining, lights are on around the clock, and his client doesn't have a pillow. State lawmakers we spoke to after the funeral say they are heartbroken, Jericka. They vow to work harder to put politics aside and find a shared humanity.
REPORTER:
00:02:21
So sad. Caroline Cummings, in Minneapolis, thank you.
