Former Utah pastor charged with murder and insurance fraud in 2006 Zion National Park death
A former youth pastor, David Vander Meer, was arrested on murder and insurance-fraud charges in the 2006 death of his wife, Bernadette, at Zion National Park. Investigators allege he staged the accident, increased life-insurance coverage before her death, and collected about $567,000 after it was ruled an accident; the case was reopened in 2022 after new witness statements cast doubt on the ruling. Bail was set at $100,000 as Vander Meer awaits his initial court appearance. The investigation also includes allegations that Vander Meer had sexual relationships with underage members of his former youth group, adding a separate layer to the case.
