Man Awaiting Domestic Violence Trial, Murders Wife

September 6, 2024 Sharon Banks

A man from Utah is accused of killing his wife while out of jail awaiting trial for a previous domestic violence charge involving her.

50-year-old Eric Larson Sampson, now faces charges of domestic violence, aggravated assault, and murder in the death of his wife, 47-year-old Niki A. Sampson. She was killed on Sunday evening in St. George, Utah.

Authorities responded to a call at around 8:35 p.m. regarding a woman possibly experiencing cardiac arrest. When police arrived, they found Niki dead in her home under suspicious circumstances, and Eric was arrested shortly after.

While details surrounding her death remain limited, reports indicate that her body showed “suspicious bruising” in various stages of healing, with several bruises appearing fresh.

The investigation also uncovered Niki’s journal, which shed light on the escalating danger she faced. According to police, her entries detailed Eric’s violent tendencies, especially when under the influence of alcohol. She described him as an alcoholic and expressed her desire to escape from him, specifically noting that she feared for her life.

Eric had been out on his own recognizance following a not guilty plea to charges in which he allegedly assaulted Niki. During that earlier altercation, court documents state that Eric pinned her to the bed by placing his knees on her arms and pulling her hair.

When Niki managed to escape to the backyard, Eric followed and threw her to the ground. At the time, Eric told police he had been trying to “calm her down,” though authorities noted he appeared intoxicated, with a strong smell of alcohol and bloodshot eyes.

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Now held in the Washington County Jail, Eric Sampson faces serious charges as the investigation into Niki’s tragic death continues.