A tragic incident unfolded at the Sandhill Crane Golf Club in Palm Beach Gardens, Florida, resulting in the death of 65-year-old golfer Brian Hiltebeitel. The unfortunate event occurred when Hiltebeitel was viciously attacked by 36-year-old Junior Boucher, who had a known history of violent behavior. Boucher, who had been reported missing by his family earlier the same day—right after they filed an eviction notice against him—unleashed this brutal assault using the victim's own golf clubs.
Witnesses at the scene recounted hearing Hiltebeitel’s desperate cries for help as Boucher relentlessly beat him with clubs on the first fairway. Despite Hiltebeitel’s attempts to flee, Boucher pursued him to a nearby pond, where the assault escalated to choking and more serious blows. According to the police report, witnesses heard Hiltebeitel yell, “He’s trying to kill me,” as he tried to escape the assault.
After the attack, Boucher stripped off his clothes and fled the scene, only to be apprehended later using a stun gun. He has since been charged with first-degree murder and is being held without bond at the Palm Beach County Jail, without any apparent prior connection to Hiltebeitel.
Police Chief Dominick Pape described the incident as a “random act of violence,” noting, “This appears to be a random act of violence where Boucher used the victim’s golf clubs as weapons and viciously attacked the victim, killing him.” Tragically, Hiltebeitel, who owned an organic snack food business and had only recently moved to South Florida, was pronounced dead at the scene.
Brian Hiltebeitel is remembered as someone who touched many lives. His girlfriend, Dina Lauro, expressed her heartbreak, stating, “Brian is my right arm. I am taking it moment by moment. That is what I am going to do.” She described him as “always happy” and “never depressed,” remarking on his positive spirit and kindness.
According to local reports, Boucher’s family had previously struggled with his violent outbursts, which included attempts to choke police officers and dangerous behavior during previous incidents. This alarming history raises questions about the circumstances leading up to this chilling assault. Witnesses described the scene as chaotic, with many golfers still on the course during the attack, unsure of what to do.
The investigation continues, as authorities work to piece together the events surrounding this senseless act of violence. Chief Pape indicated efforts are being made to interview witnesses and gather more information about Boucher’s actions leading up to the attack.
Community members are reeling from the shock, questioning the vulnerability of public spaces like golf courses and the unpredictable nature of violence. The Palm Beach Gardens police are committed to ensuring safety and bringing justice for Hiltebeitel's family, who are left grappling with this sudden loss.
The community is honoring Hiltebeitel’s memory and expressing condolences for his untimely passing. While the investigation proceeds and the legal process takes its course, the sentiment among those who knew Hiltebeitel remains clear—his death is not just a statistic, but the tragic ending of a life full of promise and positivity.
