(File Photo of a New Sewickley Township Police Department Car)
Noah Haswell, Beaver County Radio News
(New Sewickley Township, PA) Chief Gregory Carney of the New Sewickley Township Police Department confirmed that Route 989 is back open as of 2 p.m. today. Carney noted that the road closed because of a tree falling on a truck shortly after 7 a.m. this morning.
(File Photo: Source for Headline Photo in Story: FILE – This booking photo provided by the Hennepin County Sheriff’s Office shows Vance Boelter in Green Isle, Minn., on June 16, 2025. (Hennepin County Sheriff’s Office via AP, File)
MINNEAPOLIS (AP) — The man charged in the political assassinations of the top Democrat in the Minnesota House and her husband, as well as the nonfatal shootings of a state senator and his wife, pleaded guilty in federal court Thursday after prosecutors said they would not seek the death penalty.
Vance Boelter was charged with murdering Minnesota House Speaker Melissa Hortman and her husband, Mark Hortman, and with shooting state Sen. John Hoffman and his wife, Yvette Hoffman. Boelter came to their doors in the early hours of June 14, 2025, disguised as a police officer and driving a fake squad car. The Hortmans’ golden retriever was so gravely injured that it had to be euthanized.
John and Yvette Hoffman sat in the courtroom’s gallery Thursday along with members of the Hortman family as the events of that night were described in great detail. Boelter repeatedly said a simple “yes” as his federal defense attorney questioned him about his actions, including whether he pressed a gun to Melissa Hortman’s head and fired.
At times, there were brief sobs coming from the gallery.
Boelter, wearing his orange jail sweatshirt and sweatpants, followed along as U.S. District Judge John Tunheim talked through each of the six charges and the potential sentences they carried. Tunheim did not set a date for sentencing. Boelter is facing an agreed-upon sentence of two life terms, plus 40 years.
Boelter, 58, was captured near his home in rural Green Isle the day after the shootings following what prosecutors have called the largest search for a suspect in Minnesota history. He also faces state charges, which have been on hold pending the resolution of his federal case.
The U.S. attorney’s office in Minneapolis notified the court Wednesday that the Justice Department would not seek the death penalty against Boelter in accordance with a proposed plea agreement, and the court set the change-of-plea hearing for Thursday.
Minnesota abolished capital punishment in 1911 and has never had a federal death penalty case. Daniel Borgertpoepping, a spokesperson for the Hennepin County Attorney’s Office, said the federal plea deal would not affect Boelter’s state charges, including two counts of murder and four counts of attempted murder. Boelter also faces state charges of impersonating a police officer and animal cruelty.
While the Trump administration has pushed for greater use of capital punishment, there were questions about whether Boelter’s case would qualify for the death penalty under federal law.
Prosecutors have called the shootings political. When they announced the federal indictment in July, they released a rambling handwritten letter they say Boelter wrote to FBI Director Kash Patel in which he confessed to the attacks. However, the letter didn’t make clear why he targeted the Hortmans or the Hoffmans.
In some messages to media, Boelter referenced a vague and cryptic “investigation” he had been carrying out, sometimes suggesting it was about the COVID-19 vaccine.
Friends described Boelter as an evangelical Christian and occasional preacher and missionary, who held politically conservative views and had been struggling to find work.
John Hoffman said in a lawsuit filed against Boelter in April that his left arm and hand likely would never fully recover, and that he also had permanent injuries to his digestive and urinary systems.
Yvette Hoffman was left with permanent physical weakness, the lawsuit said, while their adult daughter, Hope Hoffman, who was there and called 911 but was not shot, suffered severe psychological trauma.
(Credit for Photo Below: FILE – A photo of Mark and Melissa Hortman is displayed during their funeral service inside the sanctuary at the Basilica of St. Mary’s in Minneapolis on June 28, 2025. (Alex Kormann/Star Tribune via AP, Pool, File)
(Credit for Photo: Photo Courtesy of Beaver Area Heritage Museum, Beaver Station, Posted on Facebook on June 9th, 2026)
Noah Haswell, Beaver County Radio News
(Beaver, PA) The Beaver Area Heritage Museum has announced plans to unveil a new interactive project in Beaver next month.
The museum will host a public preview event at 11 a.m. on Saturday, July 4. According to museum officials, the project will eventually become part of the museum’s permanent offerings.
The preview will be the only opportunity for the public to experience the project in person before its permanent installation in 2028.
Additional details about the project have not yet been released.
(Credit for Photo: Photo Courtesy of Isaiah J. Downing-Imagn Images, Caption for Photo: Pittsburgh Steelers wide receiver Joaquin Davis)
Noah Haswell, Beaver County Radio News
(Pittsburgh, PA) The Pittsburgh Steelers recently signed wide receiver Joaquin Davis and cornerback Daryl Porter, Jr. to one-year contracts.
Davis entered the NFL as an undrafted free agent following the 2025 NFL Draft. He spent time with the Denver Broncos and the Minnesota Vikings as a rookie last season and was on the Vikings’ practice squad before remaining with the organization through the 2026 offseason.
Davis played in 42 games over four seasons at North Carolina Central, finishing his college career with 92 receptions for 1,211 yards and 12 touchdowns.
Porter returns to the Steelers after spending part of the 2025 season on the team’s practice squad. He was elevated to the active roster for Pittsburgh’s Week 16 game against the Detroit Lions.
Porter, the son of former NFL defensive back Daryl Porter Sr., originally signed with the Buffalo Bills as an undrafted free agent following the 2025 NFL Draft. He joined the Steelers after being released during the Bills’ training camp.
Porter began his college career at West Virginia before transferring to Miami, where he became a two-year starter. During his collegiate career, he recorded 108 tackles, 18 passes defended and one interception.
(Credit for Photo: Photo Courtesy of Beaver County Events, Posted on Facebook on June 11th, 2026)
Noah Haswell, Beaver County Radio News
(Beaver County, PA) Beaver County Networking (BCN), a business networking organization focused on building referral relationships, holds weekly meetings on Tuesdays at the Penn Beaver Restaurant inside the Rochester Hotel.
Meetings begin at noon, with doors opening at 11:30 a.m. to allow attendees and guests time to network before the program begins.
According to the organization, BCN’s mission is to help members grow their businesses through professional relationships and referrals.
You can RSVP through Facebook by clicking here.
Dolores Jean (Leptock) Budiscak, 96, of New Brighton, passed away on June 9th, 2026, at Cambridge Village.
She was born in Uniontown on August 18th, 1929, the only child of the late Michael and Catherine Leptock. In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her husband, Frank E. Budiscak, whom she married in 1954, her dear cousin, Betty Jane (Stanley) Starc, and Frank’s brothers and sisters, who embraced her into their large family: Mildred Budiscak, Joseph Budiscak, Barbara (Edward) Kasparek, Zora (Anthony) Kasparek, Florence (Henry) Hrabica, Anne Pauline (Joseph) Druzak, Thomas (Edith Mae) Budiscak, and James Wilson. She is survived by a sister-in-law, Helen Anne (Budiscak) Wilson, her two children, Nancy (Allen) Morrow and Brian (Carol) Budisak, along with her five grandsons: Matthew Morrow, Kyle (Rachael) Morrow, twins, Andrew and Patrick Budisak, and their brother, Joseph Budisak; as well as her twin great-granddaughters, Adelaide and Hazel Morrow. Her grandchildren meant the world to her. She is also survived by numerous nieces and nephews, as well as several cousins from her father’s family with whom she recently reconnected.
Dolores was the quintessential coal miner’s daughter who grew up in Uniontown. She and her dad moved to Beaver Falls for her to attend high school, from which she graduated in 1947. After graduation, she began working as an operator at Bell Telephone until the birth of her daughter. She was a member of the New Brighton Junior Women’s Club and the Alpha Epsilon Sorority in her younger days. She was an excellent cook and baker, and her family and friends enjoyed many meals lovingly prepared by her. She also enjoyed flower arranging and sewing. She and Frank went on many McCarter’s bus trips over the years. She especially enjoyed family vacations to her son’s beach home at the New Jersey shore. Her sharp recall and knowledge were remarkable.
The family would like to express their thanks to her niece, Judy (Hrabica) Reina, and longtime family friends, the Bolland Family, for their kindness and help over these past few years. As it takes a village, the family is grateful for her many neighbors and friends for their thoughtfulness and assistance.
In accordance with her wishes, Dolores will be cremated, and a celebration of life Mass will be held on Saturday, June 27th, at 10:30 a.m. at Holy Family Church, 521 7th Avenue, New Brighton. The family will receive friends and family from 9:30 a.m. until the time of Mass at 10:30 a.m. in the church vestibule.
A private inurnment will be held at St. Joseph Cemetery, 1501 1st Avenue, New Brighton.
In lieu of flowers, the family suggests donations be made, in her name, to the New Brighton Historical Society, 1229 7th Avenue, New Brighton, PA 15066.
George Raymond Ralph, 101, passed away peacefully at his residence in Chippewa Township on June 7TH, 2026.
He was born in Larimer, Pennsylvania on the West Family Farm on November 21st, 1924, the son of the late William and Catherine (West) Ralph. In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his beloved wife of 62 years, Mary M. (Maystrovich) Ralph and his brothers, William A. Ralph, J. Robert Ralph, and Paul L. Ralph. He is survived by his four sons: Christopher R. (Layne) Ralph, Kevin R. (Mary C.) Ralph, Denis J. Ralph, and Brian E. (Catherine) Ralph; as well as his grandchildren, Erin, Brienne, and Derek, his great granddaughter, Lily, and numerous nieces, nephews, and friends.
George served his country as a Third-Class Electrician’s Mate in the United States Coast Guard. Following his military service, he earned a Bachelor of Science degree in Industrial Engineering from Geneva College in Beaver Falls. He later built a successful career with Westinghouse, where he served as a Quality Control Supervisor. He was a lifelong member of the local Veterans of Foreign Wars (VFW) posts. In retirement, he enjoyed fishing, hunting, golfing, and woodworking. He was also a devoted member of St. Monica Catholic Church. He will be remembered for his dedication to his family, his service to his country, his strong work ethic, and the many friendships he cultivated throughout his long and meaningful life.
The Ralph family extends its deepest gratitude to Susan Beck, Harley Seabrite and Sue Champion for the extraordinary kindness, compassion, and care they provided during their father’s final journey. Their unwavering support and dedication brought comfort to both him and his loved ones.
The family also wishes to express sincere appreciation to the staff of Good Samaritan Hospice and Villa St. Joseph for the exceptional care, compassion, and dignity they provided.
A Mass of Christian Burial will be held on Thursday June 18th at 10 A.M. at St. Monica Catholic Church of St. Augustine Parish, 116 Thorndale Drive, Beaver Falls. Fr. Kim J. Schreck will serve as celebrant.
Interment will follow at Grandview Cemetery, 139 Norwood Drive, Beaver Falls.
In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions can be made to St. Monica Catholic Church of St. Augustine Parish, 116 Thorndale Drive, Beaver Falls, PA 15010 in George’s name.
Arrangements have been entrusted to GABAUER-LUTTON FUNERAL HOME & CREMATION SERVICES, INC, 117 Blackhawk Road, Beaver Falls PA 15010.
Patricia L. (McCormack) Kydd, 76, of West Mayfield, passed away on Tuesday, June 9, 2026 at Allegheny General Hospital with her loving husband by her side. She was born in Kane, Pennsylvania on May 22nd, 1950, the daughter of the late Ted McCormack and Thelma Hutchison Jackson. In addition to her parents, Patricia is preceded in death by her brother, Guy McCormack.Patricia is survived by her husband of 30 years, David F. Kydd, her brothers, Jim McCormack and Tom McCormack, her brother-in-law, Ronald Kydd, her aunts, Jean Macik, Diane Hartt, Jean Hutchison and Ruth Hutchison, her cousins, Iris (Dennis) Doverspeike and Lolly (Rocco) Violi and her beloved dog, Sassy Sue.
Patricia was a member of Park Gate Baptist Church in Ellwood City. She was a former special education teacher during her years in Florida, she dedicated herself to helping and encouraging others. She was known for her wonderful sense of humor, which remained with her even during her final days in the hospital. She enjoyed crocheting and knitting, creating many treasured handmade gifts, and she dearly loved her dog, whose companionship brought her much joy.
Friends will be received on Saturday, June 13th from 2 P.M. until the time of services at 4 P.M. in the Park Gate Baptist Church, 2840 River Road, Ellwood City, with Pastor Zachary Fry as officiant.
Interment will take place privately at Grandview Cemetery, 139 Norwood Drive, Beaver Falls, Beaver Falls.
The GABAUER FUNERAL HOME & CREMATION SERVICES, Inc., 1133 Penn Avenue, New Brighton was honored to care for Patricia and her family during this most difficult time and was the funeral home that was in charge of her arrangements.
Barbara Steinmetz Alexander, 72, of Negley, Ohio, passed away on June 8th, 2026 surrounded by family at Heritage Valley Beaver.
She was born on April 4th, 1954, the daughter of the late Jerome J. Steinmetz and Roberta A. (Schwertz) Goss. In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her mother by love, Mary Kirish and her brothers, Richard “Pete” Steinmetz and William “Bill” Steinmetz. She is survived by her husband of 24 years, Jay Alexander, her children, Amanda (Matt) Keller, Ashley Ivancik, John Alexander, and Brittany (Jeff Carbone) Alexander, as well as her grandchildren, Remington, Jameson, and Violet, her nephew, Richard Steinmetz, along with numerous extended family and friends.
Barbara was a devoted wife, mother, grandmother, and friend whose faith, kindness, and love for life touched all who knew her. She was a proud holder of a Bachelor of Business Administration (BBA) who built a successful career as a self-employed Certified Public Accountant, serving her clients with integrity and dedication. She was also a faithful member of New Brighton Methodist Church, where her love for the Lord Jesus guided her life. She was an avid golfer who enjoyed time on the course, treasured her beloved dogs, and found her greatest joy in spending time with her grandchildren. She also had a passion for travel and cherished the opportunity to explore the world. Her warmth, faith, and adventurous spirit will be deeply missed and lovingly remembered by her family and friends.
Her wishes for cremation will be honored, and the family will hold a memorial service at a later date.
The GABAUER-LUTTON FUNERAL HOME & CREMATION SERVICES, Inc., 117 Blackhawk Road Beaver Falls, was honored to provide care and guidance to Barbara and her family during this most difficult time.
In lieu of flowers donations can be made to the New Brighton Methodist Church, 1033 6th Ave, New Brighton, PA 15066 in Barbara’s name or to honor her love for dogs donations can be made online to Ripple’s Rescue, https://www.ripplesrescue.com/