Man who killed Minnesota Democratic Rep. Melissa Hortman sentenced to life in prison

Published Jul 23, 08:08 PM UTC

Vance Boelter was sentenced to two consecutive life terms plus 40 years for the June 2025 assassination of former Minnesota House Speaker Melissa Hortman and her husband Mark, as well as the shooting of state Senator John Hoffman and his wife Yvette. Boelter pleaded guilty to avoid the death penalty, admitting to months of stalking and disguising himself as a police officer to carry out the politically-motivated attack. The Hortmans' family expressed anger that Boelter would not face capital punishment. Senator Hoffman and his wife testified about their lasting physical and emotional trauma, including injuries that prevent Yvette from returning to work. The Hoffmans' daughter witnessed the attack and attempted to call for help. The sentencing took place in July 2026.