Former Youth Pastor, Yoga Instructor Dies in Custody After Arrest in Wife's 2006 Death

David Vander Meer, a former youth pastor and Las Vegas-based yoga instructor, passed away while in custody just days following his arrest by U.S. Marshals on suspicion of his wife's murder, according to authorities.

The Las Vegas Metropolitan Police Department reported that a 49-year-old male inmate at the Clark County Detention Center was transported to University Medical Center on Wednesday to receive treatment for "self-sustained injuries," though they did not identify the individual at the time. Police confirmed that the man died on Thursday.

The inmate had been held at the Clark County Detention Center since June 22 and was identified as a fugitive from another state. Law enforcement officials stated that the inmate's name, along with the cause and manner of death, would be released by the coroner's office.

Investigation into a Decades-Old Death

Vander Meer was facing accusations related to the death of his wife, Bernadette Vander Meer. Investigators allege she was killed in 2006 during a hike with her husband in Zion National Park in Utah, an incident initially categorized as a fall.

The case was closed following the initial investigation but was subsequently reopened nearly two decades later, leading to the recent charges. A probable cause affidavit indicates that a senior pastor from a church where Vander Meer had previously worked alerted authorities, expressing doubts that Bernadette's death was accidental.

The affidavit further detailed: "At the time, due to a lack of evidence, and limited investigation, Bernadette Vander Meer’s fall was ruled an accident and the case was closed — although investigators felt the circumstances were suspicious."

A social media account believed to belong to Vander Meer suggests he also worked as a school counselor.

Custody and Charges

U.S. Marshals apprehended Vander Meer on Monday, charging him with murder and insurance fraud. These charges followed an extensive investigation by prosecutors.

Vander Meer was scheduled to appear in court on Thursday. However, Justice of the Peace Eric Goodman announced Vander Meer's death during a court session that morning, as reported by local news outlets. The suspect had been incarcerated at the Clark County Detention Center, awaiting extradition from Nevada to Utah to face the charges.