Man Who Killed Top Minnesota Lawmaker and Her Husband Makes First State Court Appearance
Boelter faces two murder counts and four attempted murder counts in a case that could bring mandatory life without parole under Minnesota law.
- On Monday, Vance Boelter appeared in Hennepin County District Court to face eight state charges, including two counts of first-degree murder and attempted murder for his June 14, 2025, attacks on Minnesota lawmakers and their families.
- Boelter remains in custody following his federal sentencing less than two weeks ago, when he received consecutive life sentences plus 40 years for killing Minnesota House Speaker Melissa Hortman and her husband, Mark.
- Prosecutors pursue state charges to prevent potential pardons, as Minnesota law mandates life in prison without parole for first-degree premeditated murder convictions, blocking any path to release.
- During the hearing, Boelter spoke about 49 days in solitary confinement, claiming he lost 36 pounds, which he said "I didn't think was humanly possible." He also requested a priest he has not seen in 14 months.
- The Hortman family said they are "grateful" for the federal case's resolution but added "nothing can replace what we have lost," as the state case continues with the next hearing scheduled for September 2.
93 Articles
93 Articles
At first appearance on state murder charges, Vance Boelter asks if Amy Klobuchar will be called to testify
Convicted political assassin Vance Boelter was back in a Minnesota courtroom Monday on the state’s charges against him, asking a judge if Sen. Amy Klobuchar would be brought in to testify in his case. Boelter made a first appearance in…
Star Local
State case begins against man who killed Minnesota lawmaker
(The Center Square) – Vance Boelter appeared in state court to face state charges for last year's attacks on Minnesota lawmakers that killed Minnesota House Speaker Emerita Melissa Hortman and her husband.
Associated Press News
Man who killed top Minnesota lawmaker and her husband makes first state court appearance
The man serving two life terms plus 40 years after pleading guilty to federal charges related to killing a top Democratic lawmaker and her husband has made his initial appearance in state court.
Hanford Sentinel
Minnesota lawmaker shootings: Vance Boelter to make first appearance in state murder case after federal life sentence
MINNEAPOLIS — Vance Boelter will make his first appearance in Hennepin County District Court on Monday afternoon, less than two weeks after he was sentenced to consecutive life sentences, plus 40 years in federal prison for killing state Rep. Melissa…
Coverage Details
Bias Distribution
- 50% of the sources are Center
Factuality
To view factuality data please Upgrade to Premium
