Man Sentenced to Life for Killing Minnesota Lawmaker and Husband

Vance Luther Boelter, 59, was sentenced on July 23, 2026, to two consecutive life sentences plus 40 years in federal prison for the murders of former Minnesota House Speaker Melissa Hortman and her husband, Mark Hortman. Boelter pleaded guilty to federal charges related to the shootings that occurred on June 14, 2025. He also killed the couple's dog, Gilbert. The plea agreement prevented the death penalty in exchange for the maximum prison sentence. U.S. District Judge John R. Tunheim stated that this was the longest sentence he had imposed in his career. The case has been linked to conspiracy theories regarding the involvement of Minnesota Governor Tim Walz, which have since been debunked. The couple's children expressed their grief and the impact of the tragedy, emphasizing the dangers of misinformation. Boelter also wounded state Senator John Hoffman and his wife during the incidents. He faces additional state charges for murder and attempted murder in Minnesota.