Arzuaga Pleads Guilty in Sam Nordquist Case

Birmingham AL News Today | 2 Min News | The Daily News Now! · Jun 27, 2026 · 1m

A woman accused of orchestrating the torture and murder of 24-year-old Sam Nordquist has pleaded guilty to first-degree murder, kidnapping, and other grave crimes, facing life without parole. She admitted to hiding his body after his death, but no plea deal was offered — and her lawyer and the victim’s family question her sincerity. Sam’s sister Kayla and mother Linda say the guilty plea doesn’t bring justice, as Sam’s life was stolen and his story remains incomplete. The family, who traveled from Minnesota for the hearing, vow to honor his memory as a good man who deserved better. Arzuaga…