Guilty Plea in Double Murder of Minnesota Lawmaker

Vance Boulter has confessed to killing Mark Hortman on his porch before pursuing Melissa Hortman, shooting her several times and threatening her with a gun. This admission halted federal action against him following the tragic murder of a Democratic Minnesota congresswoman, alongside her husband, in addition to attacking another political couple.

Boulter was apprehended by the Hennepin County Sheriff’s Office just two days after the shocking attack on June 14, 2025. Disguised as a police officer, he entered the residence of Minnesota State Sen. John Hoffman, shooting both him and his wife, and ultimately killing their daughter, Hope Hoffman.

Afterward, Boulter went to the Hortmans’ home and murdered the couple. Prosecutors disclosed that he had a list of other congressional members he intended to target and had attempted to visit their homes, although he found no one present.

During a recent hearing, John Hoffman, his wife Yvette, and their families were in attendance to witness Boulter’s plea. He pleaded guilty to two counts of stalking, two charges of murder, and two counts of firearm discharge. In return for his plea, he is set to serve two life sentences plus an additional 40 years, while prosecutors agreed to forego the death penalty, according to Minnesota U.S. Attorney Daniel Rosen.

Rosen remarked, “Political violence is the scourge of our country.” He anticipates that Boulter will ultimately spend the rest of his life in prison without the possibility of parole. He also conveyed a stern message to those engaging in political violence, stating that justice will be served to the fullest extent.

In addition to federal charges, Boulter faces multiple state accusations linked to the assault, including premeditated murder, attempted murder, felony animal cruelty, and impersonating an officer.

The Hoffman family released a statement concerning the plea agreement, emphasizing that “there will be no justice if our families and nation never truly heal.” They highlighted the importance of community respect and unity, expressing a commitment to public service over hatred and division.

To aid in the Hoffmans’ recovery, a GoFundMe campaign has raised over $265,000.