First-degree Felony Murder Charge Against Keith Klingenberg for the Death of His Wife

Today, the Salt Lake County District Attorney’s Office filed a first-degree felony murder charge against Keith Klingenberg for the death of his wife, Bernadean Klingenberg, at their home in West Valley City on June 11, 1995. When Mr. Klingenberg originally reported Bernadean’s death, he told a 911 dispatcher that she had taken her own life by slashing her own throat.

 

At the time, the medical examiner classified the manner of death as undetermined. West Valley City Police and the Salt Lake County District Attorney’s Office jointly reactivated the case in 2016. Several factors lead to that decision including statements by Mr. Klingenberg to 911, witness information, and further analysis of the scene by experts.

 

“Although twenty-eight years is a long time to wait for justice, the Salt Lake County District Attorney's Office will always seek justice for victims. We hope this helps Bernadean’s loved ones begin to find a sense of closure in her death,” said Salt Lake County District Attorney Sim Gill. “We’d like to thank our partners at the West Valley City Police Department for helping ensure we have the necessary evidence and information to prosecute this case.”

 

The charges filed are allegations, Keith Klingenberg remains innocent until proven guilty in a court of law.

 

If you have any information about the death of Bernadean Klingenberg, please reach out to West Valley City Police at 801-965- 5200 or majorcrimes@wvc-ut.gov