Who Killed Lucy in Untamed? Breaking Down the Shocking Ending of Netflix’s Crime Thriller

By Radhika Menon | Published: Jul 22, 2025

Untamed has quickly become a Netflix sensation, gripping viewers with its intense plot, haunting mystery, and beautifully dark setting in the Yosemite National Park. Led by Eric Bana as the troubled Special Agent Kyle Turner, the show delves deep into a tragic death and a complex web of secrets that leave no one untouched.

As the six-episode series concludes, questions loom over the identity of the killer and the web of deceit surrounding Lucy Cook’s (Ezra Franky) tragic death. Here’s a breakdown of the shocking finale and everything we know about the twists that no one saw coming.

The Mysterious Jane Doe

The series begins with the discovery of a body falling from El Capitan, leading to the identification of Jane Doe, whose murder is linked to deep-seated secrets in the park. When park ranger Naya Vasquez (Lily Santiago) identifies Jane Doe as Lucy Cook, a young girl assumed dead years ago, the investigation takes a darker turn. It’s revealed that Lucy was presumed to be murdered by her father, Rory (Scott Vickaryous), after her mother’s tragic death. But that’s just the beginning of the twisted story.

Who Killed Lucy Cook?

While the show initially teases that Lucy’s involvement with a drug ring could have been the cause of her death, the investigation uncovers a much more personal motive. Turner’s investigation leads him to Chief Paul Souter (Sam Neill), who is revealed to have been Lucy’s biological father. The chilling truth unfolds when Souter admits to an affair with Lucy’s mother and places her in a neglectful foster home.

As the mystery unravels, it’s revealed that after Lucy returned to the park as an adult, she began blackmailing Souter for money. In a desperate attempt to scare her into silence, Souter shot Lucy — a decision that ultimately led to her death. This painful confession marks the emotional climax of the show, with Souter taking his own life before he can be arrested, leaving Turner with more questions than answers.

The Shocking Truth Behind Sean Sanderson’s Disappearance

Aside from the main case, Untamed also weaves in the tragic backstory of Turner’s son Caleb, whose death is linked to the disappearance of a man named Sean Sanderson (Mark Rankin). As Turner investigates, he uncovers a dark secret about his ex-wife Jill (Rosemarie DeWitt), who had secretly arranged for Sanderson to be murdered. The revelation that Turner’s ex-wife paid for Sanderson’s death to avoid a lengthy trial deepens the tension between the characters and adds a personal stake to Turner’s investigation.

The Emotional Conclusion

In the final moments of the series, Turner decides to leave Yosemite behind, putting the ghosts of his past to rest. He hands over his horse to Vasquez, with a note reminding her to care for the animal, and leaves a box of Caleb’s old toy cars for her son. Meanwhile, Jill attempts to seek redemption by confessing her role in Sanderson’s death to her new husband. However, the series leaves it ambiguous whether he will accept her confession, leaving viewers on the edge of their seats.

What’s Next for Untamed?

While the fate of Lucy Cook’s murderer is sealed, Untamed leaves several unresolved questions and potential storylines for a second season. Turner’s ongoing battle with his guilt, the impact of his ex-wife’s betrayal, and the mystery surrounding other park-related deaths set the stage for future investigations. As Turner rides off into the sunset, there’s a palpable sense that his journey is far from over — and fans will undoubtedly be clamoring for more.

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Rating: A+

Untamed has proven to be more than just a typical crime thriller; it’s a deep dive into the moral complexities of justice, guilt, and redemption. With its breathtaking backdrop and intricate storytelling, it’s clear that this show is just getting started. Stay tuned for updates on a possible second season.