Utah Mom Accused of Killing Husband with Fentanyl Faces Trial

Kouri Richins' former housekeeper expected to testify as key witness in high-profile murder case

Feb. 23, 2026 at 8:51pm

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Kouri Richins, a 35-year-old Utah mother, is facing trial for the 2022 fentanyl-related death of her husband, Eric Richins. Prosecutors allege Richins obtained the lethal dose of fentanyl through the family's housekeeper and had a financial motive, as Eric's estate was worth millions. The defense maintains Richins is innocent and the state cannot prove how the fentanyl entered Eric's body.

Why it matters

This high-profile case in the upscale Utah ski town of Park City raises questions about domestic violence, drug abuse, and financial motives in wealthy communities. The testimony of the family's former housekeeper is expected to be pivotal, highlighting the role of third-party witnesses in complex murder investigations.

The details

Prosecutors allege Richins obtained fentanyl pills through the family's housekeeper days before her husband's death, and that toxicology results revealed over five times the lethal level of fentanyl in Eric's system. The state also claims Richins owed millions in real estate debts and had taken out multiple life insurance policies on her husband, whose estate was worth millions at the time of his death. The defense argues the state cannot prove how the fentanyl entered Eric's body or that Richins knowingly administered it, and has questioned the credibility of cooperating witnesses.

  • Kouri Richins was arrested in May 2023, about a year after Eric's death in March 2022.
  • The trial began on Monday, February 23, 2026.

The players

Kouri Richins

A 35-year-old Utah mother accused of killing her husband, Eric Richins, with fentanyl in 2022.

Eric Richins

Kouri Richins' 39-year-old husband who died from fentanyl toxicity in 2022.

Brad Bloodworth

Summit County Deputy Attorney prosecuting the case against Kouri Richins.

Kathryn Nester

One of Kouri Richins' lead defense attorneys.

Family Housekeeper

The housekeeper who allegedly provided the fentanyl pills to Kouri Richins, according to prosecutors.

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What they’re saying

“We must not let individuals continue to damage private property in San Francisco.”

— Robert Jenkins, San Francisco resident (San Francisco Chronicle)

“Fifty years is such an accomplishment in San Francisco, especially with the way the city has changed over the years.”

— Gordon Edgar, grocery employee (Instagram)

What’s next

The judge in the case will decide on Tuesday whether or not to allow Walker Reed Quinn out on bail.

The takeaway

This case highlights growing concerns in the community about repeat offenders released on bail, raising questions about bail reform, public safety on SF streets, and if any special laws to govern autonomous vehicles in residential and commercial areas.