A Pennsylvania-based registered nurse, age 41, is now formally charged with several murders and attempted murders, linked to purported lethal insulin injections given to patients at multiple healthcare institutions. With the deepening probe, the list of victims has extended to incidents occurring over three years.
The first charges against Heather Pressdee were made in May, related to two fatalities at a nursing home and the harm of another individual. The case has since escalated, with Pressdee’s arraignment on further charges: two additional first-degree murder counts, 17 attempted murder counts, and 19 counts of neglect toward care-dependent persons.
Investigators argue that Pressdee began over-administering insulin to 19 patients across five healthcare facilities in 2020, causing harm to both those with and without diabetes.
The alleged offenses took place largely during Pressdee’s night shifts at the various health centers where she was employed.
Following her waiver of a preliminary hearing, Pressdee is now incarcerated at the Butler County jail, potentially facing the death penalty if convicted of first-degree murder as per state law.
The investigation highlighted the case of Marianne Bower, a 68-year-old who died in September 2021 under Pressdee’s care at a rehabilitation center. Her family, having originally attributed her death to natural causes, later questioned this belief after allegations against Pressdee arose.
Law enforcement has not yet provided comprehensive timelines or identified all facilities involved, citing the ongoing nature of their investigation.
The case has captured public attention due to the grave nature of the crimes and the time over which they occurred. The Pennsylvania Board of Nursing is also poised to review Pressdee’s nursing practices, with her license currently suspended.
Court documentation discloses that from April 2022 to May 2023, Pressdee sent messages to her mother that included complaints about her patients and colleagues, alongside mentions of potential harm.
Further details are expected to be revealed as the case progresses through the legal system, aiming to piece together the events that led to the numerous allegations against Pressdee. The community and the grieving families are expecting further information and justice for the wrongs that have been committed.
