Minnesota Man Charged in Shocking Double Homicide
Funeral Home Worker Accused of Murdering Lawmakers
In a troubling case that has gripped Minnesota, 57-year-old Vance Boelter has been charged with the murders of Democratic state Representative Melissa Hortman and her husband, Mark, along with an attempted assault on another politician and his spouse. The incident occurred early Saturday at the Hortman residence in Brooklyn Park, escalating concerns over political violence.
A Life Lead by Paradox
Before the events of that fateful night, Boelter was employed at a local funeral home where he specialized in the extraction of eyeballs for organ donation programs. This unsettling line of work has raised eyebrows, particularly in light of his alleged violent actions.
A close friend and former roommate, David Carlson, remarked on Boelter’s odd behavior before the murders. “He thanked us for our friendship and mentioned needing rest for work, claiming he had to be ‘sharp’ for his job,” Carlson recounted. Such comments now seem haunting, juxtaposed against the violent crime that transpired hours later.
The Timeline Unfolds
Boelter was reportedly on call that night, with a schedule that required him to be available from 6 p.m. to 6 a.m. This demanding routine allowed him to work across two funeral homes, even assisting in the removal of bodies from crime scenes. His past includes studies in mortuary science at Des Moines Area Community College, where he enrolled in courses in 2023 and 2024, although it remains unclear whether these courses were taken online or in person.
Community Reaction
In the wake of the arrests, Metro First Call Funeral Home expressed their condolences, stating, “This is devastating news for all involved.” The organization confirmed that Boelter had worked for them from August 2023 until voluntarily leaving in February 2025.
Ongoing Investigation
The investigation continues as the community grapples with the implications of such a violent act involving public officials. The charges filed against Boelter add to a troubling trend of political violence in the nation, raising significant concerns among residents and lawmakers alike.
Further updates will be provided as more information becomes available.
Focuses on crime, public safety, and regional events.
Bio: Marcus is a community-based journalist passionate about reporting impactful stories that matter most to readers.