Deep Dive
Why did Eric Miller die?
Eric Miller died from arsenic poisoning. His blood tests revealed high doses of a lethal toxin, leading to his death in a Raleigh, NC hospital.
Who was suspected of poisoning Eric Miller?
Eric's wife, Ann Miller, was suspected of poisoning him. Police discovered she was having an affair with her co-worker, Derril Willard, who later committed suicide.
What was the role of Derril Willard in the case?
Derril Willard was Ann Miller's co-worker and lover. He was questioned by police but committed suicide before revealing details. His attorney later disclosed that Ann confessed to injecting arsenic into Eric's IV while he was in the hospital.
How did the investigation unfold after Eric's death?
The investigation involved searching the Miller home and Eric's workplace for arsenic. Ann Miller was initially a suspect due to her access to arsenic in her lab and her affair with Derril Willard.
What was the outcome of the legal battle over Derril Willard's attorney-client privilege?
The North Carolina Supreme Court ruled that Derril's attorney must reveal what Derril had told him about Ann's role in Eric's murder, breaking the attorney-client privilege.
How did Ann Miller's behavior after Eric's death raise suspicions?
Ann Miller's behavior, including her quick remarriage, refusal to cooperate with police, and moving away from Raleigh, raised suspicions. She also insisted on Eric's cremation against his family's wishes.
What was the final verdict in the case?
Ann Miller was charged with Eric's murder and accepted a plea deal of 25 years in prison. She admitted to intentionally causing his death with malice.
What impact did the case have on the investigators and the family?
The case consumed Lieutenant Chris Morgan for nearly five years, and the Miller family was devastated. They felt justice was done but were left with little satisfaction due to the tragic loss of two lives and the impact on their granddaughter, Claire.
- Eric Miller, a scientist, dies from arsenic poisoning.
- Accidental exposure is ruled out.
- Police conclude it was murder.
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