WEST DES MOINES, Iowa — October 2022 Editor's Note: Nathen Cameron was acquitted of murder at trial and convicted on lesser charges
A woman's death in February was not accidental, but rather an "intentional act" by a man now charged with murder, West Des Moines police said Friday.
Police responded to the Sun Prairie Apartments on Vista Drive on Feb. 12 for a woman who fell from a third-story apartment balcony, a release says. The female, identified as 23-year-old Trisha Kunze of West Des Moines, was transported to a hospital where she later died.
"Eventually, police discovered evidence indicating this was not an accident, but rather an intentional act causing the death of [the victim]," the police department release says.
On Friday, 27-year-old Nathen Cameron was arrested and charged with the following:
- Murder in the First Degree
- Willful Injury Causing Serious Injury
- Domestic Assault with Strangulation
- Possession of Marijuana with Intent to Deliver
- Drug Tax Stamp Violation
He is being held at the Dallas County Jail.
Kunze's family released a statement to Local 5 News which reads as follows:
"To know her was to love her. On February 13, 2022 our entire world turned upside down when our sweet Trisha tragically passed away. Trisha was the most beautiful, fun, and loving soul. She was fiercely independent and, with a caring heart, always put others first. Her personality was magnetic to everyone around her, especially children, whom she loved the most. Trisha was a precious daughter, sister, aunt, granddaughter, niece, cousin, and friend. She was deeply loved by so many who describe her as incredibly sweet and caring. Ever filled with immense empathy, Trisha was a sensitive soul with a strong mind and a heart she dedicated to helping others whenever possible. She loved animals and volunteered at nursing homes. As part of her passion for working with those with special needs, she volunteered at the special Olympics. While ever humble about her own accomplishments, her drive helped her excel at sports, especially basketball and softball, and forge a successful career with Wells Fargo, but not before she had the chance to work with her beloved children at a daycare. Trisha lit up every room she walked into and left a lasting impression of joy and comfort. She loved God and she loved her family. She is missed beyond words and we will carry her forever in our hearts. Despite the suffering she endured, Trisha’s family is comforted that she is no longer in pain and she is safe in the arms of God."