ST. GEORGE, UT – A Utah man is facing serious charges in connection with the death of his wife while he was out awaiting trial on a previous domestic violence case against her.

Eric Larson Sampson, 50, is charged with domestic violence, aggravated assault, and murder in the death of his wife, Niki A. Sampson, 47. Authorities responded to a call about a potential cardiac arrest at their St. George home on Sunday around 8:35 p.m., according to a police statement.

Upon arrival, officers found Niki A. Sampson deceased inside the residence. The circumstances of her death appeared suspicious, leading to Eric Sampson’s immediate arrest. Specific details surrounding her death have not been disclosed.

An arrest report highlighted “suspicious bruising” in multiple stages of healing on Niki’s body and face, many of which seemed fresh. Investigators also discovered Niki Sampson’s journal, which provided further insight into her troubled relationship with Eric Sampson.

The journal entries described how Eric Sampson became aggressive when intoxicated. Notations also expressed Niki’s fear for her life and her desire to escape from her husband. One particular entry detailed her growing apprehension about her safety.

This incident follows Eric Sampson’s earlier arrest in July, where he was accused of assaulting Niki Sampson. Court documents from the previous case reveal disturbing details of physical violence. During that incident, he allegedly restrained her on their bed, pinned her down with his knees, and pulled her hair.

When Niki fled to their backyard, Eric is said to have pursued her, grabbed her with both hands and threw her to the ground. He reportedly told police that he was trying to “calm her down” and claimed she had hit and kicked him. The responding officers noted a strong smell of alcohol on Eric Sampson and observed his bloodshot, watery eyes.

Currently, Eric Sampson is being held at Washington County Jail, as noted in online booking records.