A Santaquin registered nurse faces serious charges after being accused of systematically poisoning her friend for financial gain. Meggan Randall Sundwall, 47, is now under investigation for aggravated murder and obstruction of justice in the case of Kacee Lyn Terry, 38, who was reportedly convinced by Sundwall that she was suffering from terminal cancer. In a chilling narrative that spanned five years, detectives uncovered a web of deceit involving a purported $1.5 million life insurance policy held by Terry, and evidence pointing to Sundwall's deliberate intent to end her friend’s life.
According to the court documents, the alarming details began to unfold on August 12, 2024, when police and first responders were dispatched to a Highland home at the request of Terry's uncle, who discovered her unconscious with Sundwall. Upon arrival, medical personnel noted that Sundwall failed to contact emergency services earlier, despite the dire condition of her friend. Instead, Sundwall informed Terry's uncle that his niece had a 'do not resuscitate' order in place—an assertion that medical staff later found could not be verified. To make matters worse, a diabetic needle was found at the scene, despite Terry not being diabetic.
Although Sundwall claimed that Terry had been struggling and unresponsive for hours, a blood test indicated that her blood sugar level was dangerously low at just 14, prompting immediate hospitalization. Unfortunately, she was declared brain dead three days later on August 15. A medical examination subsequently confirmed that the cause of death was indeed an overdose of promethazine and probable exogenous insulin, clearly indicating that Terry's life had been cut short by external forces.
The investigation into Sundwall revealed a disturbing pattern of manipulation and coercion. Family and friends told detectives that for years, Sundwall had been convincing Terry that she was terminally ill, despite Terry's actual health being sound. In an affidavit, police mentioned that evidence was found linking Sundwall to over 28,000 text messages exchanged between the two women, showing Sundwall attempting to persuade Terry to 'end her suffering' by taking potentially lethal doses of insulin. "Detectives were told by Kacee's family and friends that Meggan had been trying to kill Kacee, with insulin, for years. This theory was corroborated through digital evidence located on the victim's phone," added the Lone Peak police in their report.
Compounding the issue, it was revealed that Sundwall was experiencing financial difficulties after recently losing her job, and she allegedly viewed the execution of Terry’s insurance payout as a solution to her money troubles. In one troubling exchange, Sundwall texted Terry before her arrival at the scene, asking, "Do you want to take some promethazine when I get there so that you are asleep when this is happening?" This text adds to the concerns regarding Sundwall's intentions that day.
Throughout the distressing episode, the story portrays not just a case of potential murder but raises concerning questions about Sundwall's ethics as a registered nurse. "Meggan Randall Sundwall is a licensed registered nurse who intentionally administered insulin to a nondiabetic. Meggan knew this would kill Kacee. Evidence shows that Meggan was having money problems and that this was done to improve her financial situation," reported the police.
As news of Sundwall’s arrest spread, emotional tributes began pouring in for Terry. Those who knew her highlighted her caring nature and passion for helping others, which starkly contrasts with the alleged actions of Sundwall. According to her obituary, Terry dreamed of motherhood, loved babysitting kids, and had a passion for the outdoors that included hunting and camping. Her family reminisced about the joy she found in helping others, especially during her time working with disabled adults.
As the case proceeds, Sundwall is being held without bail, facing severe charges that could lead to a sentence ranging from 25 years to life in prison. Prosecutors are weighing their options regarding the potential for seeking the death penalty, depending on the outcomes of upcoming hearings. The implications of this case reverberate beyond the courtroom, sparking discussions about the moral responsibilities of healthcare professionals and the tragic outcomes when trust is violated.
Though Meggan Randall Sundwall initially garnered respect as a registered nurse—having held her license since 2007—the allegations against her paint a vividly conflicted picture of a trusted caregiver turned accused murderer. As friends and family of Kacee Lyn Terry mourn her untimely loss, they are left grappling with unanswered questions that linger in the backdrop of a shocking criminal case.
