A Minnesota man accused of killing a top Democratic state lawmaker and her husband while pretending to be a police officer is now facing upgraded state charges, in addition to a federal case that could bring even harsher penalties.
Vance Boelter, 58, of Green Isle, Minnesota, has been indicted on two counts of first-degree murder, four counts of attempted first-degree murder, impersonating a police officer, and animal cruelty for shooting a family’s dog. Hennepin County Attorney Mary Moriarty announced the new charges Thursday, saying they “reflect the weight of Mr. Boelter’s crimes.”
Despite the seriousness of the state charges, the federal case against Boelter is moving forward first. He was indicted on July 15 on six federal counts of murder, stalking, and firearms violations. The federal murder charges could bring the death penalty, though prosecutors have not yet decided whether to pursue it. Minnesota does not have the death penalty, meaning the maximum penalty at the state level is life in prison.
Boelter pleaded not guilty in federal court on August 7.
What Happened on June 14
Authorities say Boelter spent months planning a violent attack targeting several lawmakers. In the early hours of June 14, he allegedly dressed as a police officer, wearing a uniform and mask, and went to the home of former Minnesota House Speaker Melissa Hortman and her husband, Mark.
Boelter shouted that he was police and forced his way into their home before fatally shooting both of them.
From there, officials say, Boelter drove to the home of state Senator John Hoffman and his wife, Yvette. He again pretended to be a police officer and tried to force his way inside. The Hoffmans managed to push him back and close the door, but Boelter allegedly fired through the door, hitting Senator Hoffman nine times and his wife eight times. Miraculously, both survived. Their adult daughter, who was nearby, was not injured.
Authorities said Boelter also drove to the home of state Representative Kristin Bahner during his rampage. He rang her doorbell for two minutes while claiming to be police and trying to open the door. She was not home at the time, but prosecutors have still charged Boelter with attempted murder, saying his intent was clear.
Boelter was arrested the following day, June 15, after a search involving local, state, and federal law enforcement agencies.
Why the Charges Changed
Boelter was originally charged at the state level with second-degree murder and attempted second-degree murder. Prosecutors said those charges were filed quickly to secure a warrant, but they warned they would likely seek first-degree charges after more evidence came in.
On Thursday, those upgraded charges were officially filed, including the addition of two more counts of attempted murder.
Moriarty emphasized the seriousness of the crimes, saying:
“The damage done to the victims — those with us, those who were taken from us, and to our entire community — has opened wounds that will never heal. We will do everything in our power to ensure that he is never able to hurt anyone again.”
What Comes Next
Although Minnesota prosecutors wanted the state case to move forward first, federal prosecutors are taking the lead. The federal charges carry higher potential penalties, including the possibility of the death sentence.
“When Boelter returns to state custody, we will be prepared to prosecute him — to hold him accountable to our community,” Moriarty said.
Boelter has applied for a public defender in the state case, but one has not yet been assigned. For now, his future will depend largely on the outcome of the federal case.
