Minnesota lawmaker’s killer sentenced to 2 life terms plus 40 years

Vance Boelter, who murdered former Minnesota House Speaker Melissa Hortman and her husband and tried to kill State Senator John Hoffman and his family, has been sentenced to two consecutive life terms plus 40 years in federal prison.

Vance Luther Boelter, 58, was sentenced on Thursday for the June 14, 2025, attacks that killed Melissa and Mark Hortman and wounded State Senator John Hoffman and his wife, Yvette.

Boelter also tried to kill the Hoffmans’ daughter, Hope, and stalked all five victims before carrying out the attacks.

Court documents said Boelter acted alone and extensively researched his intended targets. He used disguises, firearms and law enforcement-style equipment to gain access to their homes.

Boelter admitted that he intended to target multiple elected officials. Other lawmakers were also targeted, according to the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF).

Boelter previously pleaded guilty to six federal charges, including stalking resulting in death, murder through the use of a firearm and discharging a firearm during crimes of violence.

Melissa and Mark Hortman were killed within seconds of each other, while John and Yvette Hoffman suffered devastating gunshot wounds. Their daughter was forced to call for help.

“Vance Boelter’s crimes rank among the most horrific this office has ever prosecuted,” U.S. Attorney Daniel Rosen said. “Today, the United States ensured that Boelter will spend the rest of his life in prison without the possibility of release.”