Two Arrested in Connection With the Death of a Two-Year Old

October 22, 1999

LOS ANGELES POLICE DEPARTMENT
PRESS RELEASE
Friday, October 22, 1999
On Thursday, October 21, 1999, investigators from the Abused Child Unit were summoned to Valley Presbyterian Hospital to investigate the suspicious death of a two-year-old child residing in the 8100 block of Langdon Avenue in Van Nuys. The child was taken to the hospital via Rescue Ambulance at approximately 1:00 a.m. The child had numerous suspicious bruises about his head and body. He was pronounced dead upon arrival at the hospital.

The preliminary investigation revealed that the mother, Christina Lee Bowman, age 23, left the child with her live in boyfriend while she was working. According to the mother, the child was in good health when she left for work. Mother’s live in boyfriend, 23 year old Christopher Hihn, who had been the sole caretaker of the victim, was arrested and booked for 187 (A) PC, Murder. Bail is set at $1,000,000 and the case will be presented to the District Attorney’s Office.

Christina Lee Bowman was subsequently arrested and booked for 273A (A) PC, Felony Child Endangering and her bail is set at $50,000.

For Release 8:50 am PST
October 22, 1999