RUTLAND, Vt. -
Joseph Bolduc, 25 of Burlington was teary eyed as he walked into a Rutland, Vermont courtroom Monday.
The Burlington man pleaded not guilty to four charges, including second degree murder for the death of Conrad Bell.
During the five minute arraignment, Bell's wife, Tori, stood, and stared down Bolduc.
"He ripped my heart out because I loved that man so much and he took him away from me," said Bell.
It all happened Friday night.
State police say Bolduc went to a party in Ferrisburgh looking for someone.
After learning he wasn't there, police say Bolduc started a fight.
During it, police say Bolduc hit Bell with a tire iron multiple times in the neck and took off.
An injury friend says he never should have received.
Friend Todd Huestis says Bell was trying to break up the brawl.
"I hate to say it he saved my life. Why I didn't get hit in the head with a weapon is beyond me," said Huestis.
In court, Bolduc's family and friends had a hard time comprehending what had happened.
"It's just so hard to see him look like that because that's not the Joe I know," said Naomi Manning.
As emotional as it was inside the courtroom, outside was just as tough.
"I love you Conrad," said Huestis.
For Bell's wife, she says even though Bolduc has been charged with her husband's death, it's going to be awhile before she and her two children can move on.
The crime happened in Addison County, and the arraignment was supposed to take place there this afternoon.
But because no judge was available they moved it to Rutland County.
Bolduc is being held without bail.
He'll be back in court later this week.
