WEST PALM BEACH, FL – Authorities have detained a man suspected of killing another man using golf clubs at a local golf course in what law enforcement officials describe as an unprovoked violent attack.
Junior Boucher, 36, is accused of first-degree murder following the death of 65-year-old Brian Hiltebeitel at Sandhill Crane Golf Club. Witnesses reported hearing Hiltebeitel shout for help, saying, “he’s trying to kill me,” as Boucher allegedly pursued him with a golf club, police stated.
Once Boucher reached Hiltebeitel, he allegedly began assaulting him with the golf club, delivering severe blows to his head. The altercation continued near a pond on the course’s first hole, according to a police affidavit.
Witnesses recount that Boucher pursued Hiltebeitel into the water, where he reportedly mounted and choked him. Even after Hiltebeitel ceased to move, Boucher allegedly continued to strike him before exiting the pond and discarding his clothing, according to the police document.
Emergency responders retrieved Hiltebeitel from the pond, noting multiple serious wounds to his head and body. He was pronounced dead at the scene, officials confirmed.
Palm Beach Gardens Police Chief Dominick Pape reported that officers apprehended Boucher following a brief foot chase, discovering him naked. Boucher was subdued using an electronic control weapon before being arrested.
Investigators have yet to identify any connection between Boucher and Hiltebeitel, leaving the motive behind the attack unclear.
Chief Pape stated the assault appears to be a senseless act of violence, with Boucher using the victim’s own golf clubs as deadly weapons.
Earlier on the day of the incident, Boucher’s family had filed a missing person report for him, police noted. His criminal background includes prior arrests for drug offenses and domestic violence.