Idaho Falls, ID — Jeremy Albert Best, a 50-year-old Idaho man, has been sentenced to three consecutive life sentences for the murders of his pregnant wife, Kali Best, his 10-month-old son Zeke, and their unborn child, Freya.
The chilling crimes occurred in late November 2023, after a series of personal struggles including financial issues, drug abuse, and an unstable relationship.
The Tragic Murders
Best pleaded guilty in February 2024 to first-degree murder for his son’s death and second-degree murder for the murders of his wife and unborn daughter. Prosecutors said the plea deal was reached after mediation and with the input from the victims’ families.
The investigation revealed that Jeremy Best and his wife had a tumultuous and abusive relationship, exacerbated by his financial troubles and drug use. Text messages between Best and his wife highlighted his deepening despair and his plans to leave everything behind.
His wife reportedly wrote in a text message that her husband had talked about selling everything he owned and leaving with just a backpack.
On November 30, 2023, Best murdered his wife by shooting her four times in the back and then brutally slit his infant son’s throat. The murder of his wife was followed by the kidnapping of their son. Authorities later issued an Amber Alert for Zeke, and he was tragically found dead in the car after Best’s arrest.
Family Impact
During the sentencing, Kali Best’s sister, Emma Brice, described the devastating impact of the loss on her family. Brice recalled the painful moment she learned about her sister’s death and how the emotional weight of the tragedy continues to affect her family. She also shared how the news affected her mother, whose screams still haunt her to this day.
“This is a case of family annihilation,” said Teton County Prosecutor Bailey A. Smith. “The defendant made — and continues to make — dangerous, selfish choices. His crimes are some of the most depraved acts the state has ever witnessed.”
The Final Moments and Arrest
After committing the heinous crimes, Jeremy Best was initially found in Swan Valley, Idaho, acting erratically and showing signs of mental distress. Authorities took him to a hospital before learning about the murders. The following day, Kali Best was found dead at home, and authorities launched a search for Zeke.
Jeremy Best was arrested on December 2, 2023, after being found by hunters in Bonneville County. They reported seeing him naked and making strange statements. He was arrested and transported for questioning, where authorities later discovered his infant son Zeke dead in the car.
Sentence and Reflection
Judge Dane H. Watkins Jr. sentenced Jeremy Best to three consecutive life sentences for his crimes, ensuring that he will spend the rest of his life behind bars. During the hearing, Judge Watkins and prosecutors emphasized the brutal nature of the crimes, as well as the psychological and emotional impact on the victims’ families.
Meg Fischer, Kali Best’s cousin, shared her fond memories of Kali, describing her as a loving mother who adored the mountains of Idaho. Fischer added that Kali’s greatest joy was motherhood, and it was believed that she died trying to protect her children.
