Back to today’s briefing

Story perspectives

Ex-Pastor Charged Murder After Wife Pushed Off Angels Landing

6/25/2026

26 3 Full Breakdown

Summary

Story summary

David Vander Meer is charged with murder for pushing his wife, Bernadette, off Angels Landing in Utah.
Investigators say the 2006 fall was ruled accidental despite affidavit details, noting police allege Vander Meer knew his wife was unhappy, discussed divorce, and gave statements about trail’s morning light.
He faces an insurance-fraud charge after a $567,439 payout and was fired from his pastor role in 2008 for giving alcohol to minors.

1 of 1

Story summary

David Vander Meer is charged with murder for pushing his wife, Bernadette, off Angels Landing in Utah.
Investigators say the 2006 fall was ruled accidental despite affidavit details, noting police allege Vander Meer knew his wife was unhappy, discussed divorce, and gave statements about trail’s morning light.
He faces an insurance-fraud charge after a $567,439 payout and was fired from his pastor role in 2008 for giving alcohol to minors.