LOS ANGELES – A revered photojournalist known for his coverage of historic global events, including the Yugoslav War, the fall of the Berlin Wall, and Nelson Mandela’s liberation, was tragically killed during a weekend hike in the San Gabriel Mountains. His 19-year-old son has been charged with the murder.
Paul Lowe, aged 60, a British photographer and war correspondent who served as a professor at the University of the Arts London, sustained severe injuries to his upper body. He was declared dead on the scene near Stoddard Canyon Falls, according to the Los Angeles County Sheriff’s office.
The county’s medical examiner reported that the cause of Lowe’s death was a fatal stab wound to the neck. Following the incident, a man, later identified as Lowe’s son, was seen leaving the area. He subsequently crashed his vehicle a few miles away. Based on the evidence and statements from witnesses, he was taken into custody, as per the sheriff’s office.
The Los Angeles County District Attorney’s Office has charged Emir Abadzic Lowe with one count of murder in connection to his father’s death. An inquiry was made to the DA’s office on Wednesday morning for comments regarding the case, including details about the son’s court appearance and legal representation.
Paul Lowe was not only a noted journalist but also a professor specializing in conflict, peace, and visual media at the University of the Arts’ London College of Communication. He authored a book entitled “Bosnians,” which chronicled a decade of warfare and the aftermath in Bosnia, published in 2005. His more recent publications include titles such as “Photography Masterclass,” “Understanding Photojournalism,” and works focusing on the Siege of Sarajevo and the Yugoslav Wars.
In an interview, Lowe recounted his experiences during the early days of the Siege of Sarajevo, where he concentrated on documenting casualties and hospital patients. He expressed a deep concern for the plight of individuals subjected to the dire conditions of a siege, stating, “People would risk their lives for a little pleasure.” He noted how children faced the harsh realities of war, yet found moments to play amidst danger, such as a photo he took of children swimming in a river during a temporary ceasefire, attracting the perilous attention of snipers.
Many individuals have expressed condolences and paid homage to Lowe. Santiago Lyon, a former vice president at The Associated Press who collaborated with Lowe during the Sarajevo crisis, remarked, “Paul was an exceptional, brave, and dedicated photojournalist who consistently immersed himself in conflict zones to reveal the stark realities of war and humanitarian crises.” He highlighted Lowe’s transition into a respected educator, shaping the next generation of photojournalists, and shared that Lowe’s unexpected passing has left the photojournalism community in profound sadness.
Moreover, Lowe was involved with The VII Foundation, which aims to train journalists from underrepresented communities. The foundation released a statement honoring Lowe as a “courageous and beloved comrade, and a deeply devoted father and husband,” expressing overwhelming sorrow over his loss and extending heartfelt condolences to his family.