Two life terms in Hortman murder as survivors recount lasting trauma

Vance Boelter was sentenced to two life terms plus 40 years after pleading guilty to federal charges tied to the June 2025 killings of Minnesota House Speaker Melissa Hortman and her husband, and the wounding of Sen. John Hoffman and his wife. Boelter, who impersonated a police officer to gain entry, sparked what prosecutors called the largest police search in state history. U.S. District Judge John R. Tunheim called the sentence the longest he has imposed, and victims’ families described enduring trauma and fear. The defense said Boelter showed remorse; Boelter also faces state charges including murder and impersonating an officer.