Vance Boelter pleaded guilty in federal court on June 11, 2026, to killing Minnesota House Speaker Melissa Hortman and her husband Mark Hortman and to shooting state Senator John Hoffman and his wife Yvette Hoffman [1, 2, 3, 4, 5].

The attacks occurred in the early hours of June 14, 2025. Boelter disguised himself as a police officer and used a fake squad car to gain access to the victims' homes [1, 2, 3, 4]. Melissa and Mark Hortman were killed in the attack, while John and Yvette Hoffman sustained serious injuries but survived [1, 2, 3, 4]. Authorities also reported that the Hortmans’ golden retriever was severely injured and euthanized after the shooting [1, 3].

John Hoffman described the lasting impact of his injuries, saying, "My left arm and hand may never fully recover; I also have permanent injuries to my digestive and urinary systems" [1].

Boelter, 58, is described as a Minnesota man with conservative views and an evangelical Christian background who previously struggled to find work [1, 2]. He confessed in a handwritten letter to FBI Director Kash Patel, referencing a vague investigation related to the Covid-19 vaccine [1].

He faces six federal charges, including two counts of murder by firearm, and could receive up to two consecutive life terms plus 40 years in prison [2, 4]. Federal prosecutors agreed to a plea deal that removes the possibility of the death penalty [1, 2, 4]. Boelter also faces state charges, which remain pending and are not affected by the federal agreement [1, 4].

Authorities described the shootings as politically motivated, pointing to a list of 45 state officials found in Boelter’s vehicle [1, 2, 4]. US Attorney Daniel N Rosen said, "Political violence is a scourge plaguing America. Those that would commit political violence at any level should take heed: The Justice Department will seek and obtain the longest prison terms available for your crimes" [4].

Boelter was captured near his home in rural Green Isle, Minnesota, on June 15, 2025, following the largest police search in the state’s history [1, 4].

The case will proceed with unresolved state charges pending beyond Boelter’s federal plea.