Inmate Killed At Smith Correctional Facility In Banning

BANNING, CA — An inmate at the Smith Correctional Facility in Banning has died after a stabbing attack by a fellow inmate, authorities said.

On Sept. 5, deputies responded to a report of an assault with a deadly weapon at the facility at 1:30 p.m., when they found the victim suffering a stab wound injury, according to the Riverside County Sheriff's Department.

Medical aid was provided by deputies until paramedics took the victim to a hospital. Steve Gonzalez, 36, of Moreno Valley, succumbed to his injuries and was pronounced dead on Sept. 7.

Officials said the victim's family was notified and was able to be at his bedside while he was being treated at the hospital.

The sheriff's Corrections Central Investigations Unit, in coordination with the sheriff's Homicide Unit, identified 55-year-old Scott Lowder as the suspect who allegedly killed Gonzalez, but no further details were provided regarding the altercation.

Lowder was in custody for criminal threats and brandishing a firearm, and will remain in custody pending murder charges, officials said.

Anyone with information regarding the death was encouraged to contact Investigator R. Navarrete with the Central Homicide Unit at 951-955-2777.

— City News Service