Utah Nurse Convicted in Life Insurance Manslaughter Case

A former Utah nurse, Meggan Sundwall, has been found guilty of manslaughter and obstruction of justice in a high-profile case involving a $1.5 million life insurance policy. Sundwall was convicted of persuading her friend, Kacee Terry, that she had terminal cancer and administering insulin to end her life, aiming to benefit from the insurance payout.

The jury reached its verdict on Tuesday, finding that Sundwall had deleted nearly 1,000 messages from the 28,000 exchanged between her and Terry, supporting the obstruction of justice charge. The investigation kicked off in August 2024 when Highland police responded to an emergency involving an unconscious Terry, mistakenly believed to have severe health issues.

At the scene, officers discovered Terry, aged 38, in her bedroom with Sundwall. Court documents reveal that Sundwall, a registered nurse, had allegedly encouraged Terry over the years to use insulin, even promising, “I can give you insulin over and over until it works.” Despite these allegations, a diabetic needle was discovered, although Terry was not diabetic, and autopsy results showed no underlying health issues.

Lone Peak Police Chief Brian Gwilliam acknowledged the verdict, commending the jury's careful deliberation and the officers and detectives who tirelessly worked on the case. He emphasized the critical partnership with the Utah County Attorney’s Office, saying, “The officers and detectives conducted a thorough and deliberate investigation of this complex and difficult case." Gwilliam expressed hope that the verdict provides some closure to Kacee Lyn Terry’s family following their tragic loss.