Minnesota Lawmaker’s Killer Faces Two Life Sentences
2 days ago
Vance Boelter is set to be sentenced in federal court Thursday after pleading guilty to killing former Minnesota House Speaker Melissa Hortman and her husband, Mark, and critically wounding another state lawmaker and his wife.
Boelter admitted that he disguised himself as a police officer and carried out the coordinated attacks at the lawmakers’ homes on June 14, 2025. State Sen. John Hoffman and his wife, Yvette, survived after suffering life-threatening gunshot wounds.
Authorities said Boelter spent months planning the attacks and stalking political figures. Investigators also found a list containing the names of other public officials who may have been potential targets.
Boelter pleaded guilty to six federal charges, including murder, stalking and firearms offenses, under an agreement that removed the possibility of the death penalty. He faces two consecutive life sentences plus an additional 40 years in prison.
The shootings sparked the largest manhunt in Minnesota history and renewed national concerns about politically motivated violence. Boelter also continues to face state charges connected to the attacks.
Boelter admitted that he disguised himself as a police officer and carried out the coordinated attacks at the lawmakers’ homes on June 14, 2025. State Sen. John Hoffman and his wife, Yvette, survived after suffering life-threatening gunshot wounds.
Authorities said Boelter spent months planning the attacks and stalking political figures. Investigators also found a list containing the names of other public officials who may have been potential targets.
Boelter pleaded guilty to six federal charges, including murder, stalking and firearms offenses, under an agreement that removed the possibility of the death penalty. He faces two consecutive life sentences plus an additional 40 years in prison.
The shootings sparked the largest manhunt in Minnesota history and renewed national concerns about politically motivated violence. Boelter also continues to face state charges connected to the attacks.
