Edward Downie, 43, of Victorville, California, died on March 27, 2017 after a handgun discharged while he was handling it in a desert area near Sunny Vista and Olivine roads. He was with a female friend when the weapon went off and struck him in the head. He was flown to Arrowhead Regional Medical Center but succumbed to his injuries.

The San Bernardino County Sheriff’s Department investigated and initially classified the shooting as accidental. Authorities at the scene reported no evidence of foul play and described the gunshot wound as self-inflicted. No arrests or charges resulted from the investigation, no suspects were identified, and the Victorville Sheriff’s Station did not pursue litigation or murder charges.

Edward Downie’s obituary noted the loss to his family and community. Does anyone have information about that day or knew Downie and can share details that might clarify what happened?