True Crime with Kendall Rae: Nursing Student Killed By Fellow Peer?! What Happened To Haley Anderson?
Episode Release Date: May 29, 2025
Host: Mile Higher Media & Audioboom Studios
Introduction
In this poignant and heart-wrenching episode of True Crime with Kendall Rae, Kendall delves into the tragic story of Haley Anderson, a promising nursing student whose life was brutally taken by a fellow peer, Orlando Tercero. Through empathetic storytelling and thorough investigation, Kendall aims to shed light on the circumstances that led to Haley's untimely death and the subsequent quest for justice.
Haley Anderson: A Bright Future Cut Short
Haley Anderson was born on May 9, 1995, in Westbury, New York. From a young age, she was described by her mother, Karen, as tenacious, high-energy, and passionately involved in everything she did—from sports to academics. Haley excelled academically, consistently making the honor roll and earning the admiration of her teachers and peers. She was not only academically gifted but also deeply beloved for her kind and fun-loving personality.
Kendall highlights Haley's aspirations to become a nurse, a dream she pursued with unwavering dedication. In her junior year, Haley was accepted into the prestigious Decker School of Nursing at Binghamton University, securing a coveted internship at Northwell Health, with expectations of a promising career upon graduation.
Relationships and Rising Tensions
During her time at university, Haley developed a close relationship with Kevin, another nursing student. Their friendship was marked by mutual respect and understanding, especially regarding Haley's desire for independence and her dream of becoming a travel nurse. However, Haley's life took a dark turn with the introduction of Orlando Tercero, a fellow nursing student from Nicaragua.
Orlando and Haley first met during their sophomore year but didn't become close until Haley reconnected with Kevin at a party. This reconnection sparked jealousy and obsession in Orlando, who began to stalk Haley, displaying increasingly controlling and intrusive behavior. Kendall narrates:
"Orlando began stalking Haley outside of her house, showing up unannounced and even sitting on her porch smoking cigarettes. [15:30]"
The fateful Night and Aftermath
On September 15, 2017, tensions escalated when a party turned sour after Orlando confronted Haley about her rekindled relationship with Kevin. The confrontation resulted in Haley helping a drunk Orlando into bed, only to later discover that he had slashed her car tires in a vindictive act. Despite evidence pointing towards Orlando, Haley chose forgiveness over pressing charges, further complicating their already tumultuous relationship.
The breaking point came on March 7, 2018, during a typical Wednesday night of games and laughter with her roommates. However, Haley failed to emerge from her room as usual, prompting her friends to track her whereabouts using the "Find My Friends" app. They discovered her at Orlando's residence, leading to a frantic search that culminated in the discovery of Haley's lifeless body.
"Haley was found with signs of manual strangulation, and the scene suggested that Orlando was unequivocally responsible. [45:20]" – Kendall Rae
The Investigation and Orlando's Flight
Following Haley's death, investigators swiftly focused on Orlando, whose suspicious actions—including fleeing to Nicaragua—further implicated him in the murder. Despite his attempts to evade justice, international cooperation led to his arrest on March 13, 2018. The severity of his crimes was underscored by the evidence found at the scene and his erratic behavior post-crime.
Legal Proceedings and Conviction
Orlando faced a trial in Nicaragua, where he was charged with femicide—a term denoting the killing of a woman because of her gender. The trial was notable for its use of remote testimonies, allowing US witnesses, including Haley's family and friends, to contribute without being physically present.
"The Nicaraguan prosecutor delivered a compelling argument, emphasizing Orlando's jealousy and obsession as the motives behind Haley's murder. [1:10:45]"
Despite a weak defense that attempted to downplay Orlando's actions by attributing them to temporary insanity caused by alcohol, the overwhelming evidence led to his conviction.
"Orlando was sentenced to 30 years in prison, reflecting the gravity of his crime and denying him any possibility of parole. [1:25:30]"
Aftermath and Reflections
Haley's family and friends grappled with immense grief and loss, striving to find closure through justice. Her mother, Karen, expressed deep sorrow but found solace in Orlando's conviction. Kendall emphasizes the lasting impact of Haley's life and the enduring pain of her absence.
"Haley was a beacon of joy, someone who never imagined her life would end so violently. Her loss resonates deeply with everyone who knew her. [1:40:00]"
Kendall concludes the episode by urging listeners to remain vigilant about red flags in relationships and to seek help when needed, honoring Haley's memory by advocating for awareness and prevention of such tragedies.
Conclusion
This episode serves as a solemn reminder of the fragility of life and the devastating consequences of unchecked obsession and violence. Through Haley Anderson's story, Kendall Rae not only pursues justice but also honors her memory by educating and empowering her audience to recognize and respond to warning signs in relationships.
Notable Quotes:
- "If I can't have her, no one can." – Kendall Rae [00:10:45]
- "Haley was a beacon of joy, and I can absolutely see how she would have made the most amazing nurse." – Kendall Rae [1:35:20]
- "No matter what his outcome was, she would always be gone." – Kendall Rae [1:50:10]
Resources Mentioned:
- Petition for Femicide Recognition: [Link in Show Notes]
- Rainn (Rape, Abuse & Incest National Network): [Resource Link]
For more detailed information and to support Haley Anderson's legacy, listeners are encouraged to visit the show notes for additional resources and ways to contribute to ongoing efforts for justice and awareness.