Boise, Idaho – Deputy Tobin Bolter was tragically shot during a routine traffic stop in Boise on Saturday night, sparking a chain of events that led to a deadly confrontation with law enforcement. The Ada County Coroner’s Office has identified the man responsible for Bolter’s death as 65-year-old Dennis Mulqueen of Boise. He succumbed to a gunshot wound to the chest at Saint Alphonsus hospital early the following morning.
According to authorities, the fatal encounter occurred when Mulqueen opened fire on Deputy Bolter, striking him in the neck before fleeing the scene. A witness to the shooting immediately called 911 and performed CPR on Bolter until emergency services arrived to rush him to the hospital for treatment. Tragically, Bolter passed away from his injuries the next day.
The suspect’s vehicle was later located by the Boise Police Department abandoned near South Dorian and West Roosevelt streets. However, the perpetrator was not found inside the vehicle at the time. Eventually, Mulqueen was confronted by officers in a nearby location, leading to a fatal exchange of gunfire that resulted in his demise.
Law enforcement officials have been unable to determine a motive behind Mulqueen’s actions, as he had a $3,000 warrant for his arrest but no apparent reason for targeting Deputy Bolter. The suspect was in possession of a handgun during the confrontation with officers, ultimately leading to his fatal outcome.
Authorities are urging anyone who had interactions with Mulqueen on the day of the incident to come forward and provide any relevant information to assist in the ongoing investigation. Detective Kelly Day can be reached at 208-577-3733 or via email at kday@adacounty.id.gov for those who may have pertinent details to share.