The re-airing of ID's upcoming special, People vs Kouri Richins is all set to cover the murder of Eric Richins, who was found dead on March 4, 2022. Since then, his grieving widow, Kouri, wrote a children's book and earned great success. But she was eventually arrested for the murder of Eric Richins.
Eric Richins was found unresponsive by his wife on March 4, 2022, in their home in Kamas, about 40 miles southeast of Salt Lake City. The 39-year-old man allegedly had a drink made by his wife before he passed out. On further investigation, the authorities discovered that he had died from an overdose of fentanyl.
This case was the subject of People vs. Kouri Richins on Investigation Discovery. The synopsis for the special reads:
"When her husband is found dead of an apparent overdose, Kouri Richins writes a children’s book about grief. Soon after she’s charged with his murder. 48 Hours contributor Natalie Morales reports."
Interestingly, this case is far from resolved till now as Kouri Richins continues to maintain her innocence and the case is still ongoing in court. So, we do not have a verdict yet, but more updates about this case will continue coming in the days that follow.
Who was Eric Richins and why was he killed?
Eric Richins was born in Davis County, Utah, on May 13, 1982. He was a hardworking individual who always tried his best in every chore from a young age. As he grew up, he became an avid sportsperson, partaking in various forms of physical activities and sports.
He was also a man of faith and was a part of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. He also spent a number of years in foreign countries for various works.
He was also a graduate of International Studies with a minor in Spanish from the University of Utah. He eventually started his own business with a friend, which also saw great success.
On June 15, 2013, Eric Richins married Kouri in an intimate ceremony. It all seemed to work out like a fairytale for Richins, but it all changed on March 4, 2022, when the 39-year-old was found unresponsive at the foot of his bed.
Prosecutors alleged that Kouri Richins owed lenders more than $1.8 million and was absolutely over her head at the time she murdered her husband. She also reportedly took out multiple life insurance policies on Eric Richins, which further increased the doubt.
She also wrote a book dedicated to him after his death, which became a huge hit. Due to her financial history, as well as, her attempts to take out a life insurance policy and change beneficiaries, Kouri Richins became the chief suspect in the murder.
She was arrested on May 8, 2023, and charged with aggravated murder and three counts of possession of a controlled substance with intent to distribute. Her trial is still ongoing as of today.
Kouri Richins has not admitted to killing Eric Richins yet. The court is also yet to decide on the fate of Kouri. The trial is set to conclude soon.
People vs. Kouri Richins will air on Investigation Discovery on Friday, August 23, 2024, at 11.00 PM EST.