Full Notification

DATE/TIME: Sunday, June 30, 2019 

INCIDENT: PC 273 ab (b) Assault on a Child Causing Paralysis

LOCATION: City of Lucerne Valley

VICTIM: Eight-month-old male 

SUSPECT: Heather Fowler, 24 years old, resident of Lucerne Valley

SUMMARY: 

On Sunday, June 30, 2019, the victim was located unresponsive inside his home. The victim was flown, by helicopter, to Loma Linda University Medical Center (LLUMC). During a medical examination at LLUMC, forensic pediatricians found the victim had no brain activity, severe brain swelling, and retinal hemorrhaging. All of the victim’s injuries were consistent with suspected child abuse. The victim is currently hospitalized in the Intensive Care Unit and is not expected to survive from his injuries.

Investigators determined the eight-month-old victim resides in Lucerne Valley with his mother, Heather Fowler. 

Following an extensive investigation and collaboration with the Victor Valley Sheriff’s Station and Forensic Pediatricians from LLUMC, Fowler was arrested on Sunday, June 30, 2019. She was booked at Central Detention Center for Willful Cruelty to a Child. 

On Tuesday, July 2, 2019, The Victorville District Attorney’s Office filed criminal charges on Fowler for PC 273 ab(b) Assault on a Child Causing Paralysis and bail was set for $100,000.. 

Anyone with information is urged to contact the Specialized Investigation Division, Crimes Against Children Detail, Detective Brian Arias (909) 387-3615. Callers wishing to remain anonymous are urged to call the We-Tip Hotline at 1-800-78-CRIME (27463) or www.wetip.com. 

Refer: Detective Brian Arias 
Station: Specialized Investigation Division - Crimes Against Children Detail 
Case No. DR#601900057 C#2019-060

Phone No. (909) 387-3615


John McMahon, Sheriff-Coroner
San Bernardino County Sheriff-Coroner Department