Prosecutors seek death penalty in 2003 Calif. fire that was linked to 5 fatal heart attacks

Prosecutors seek death penalty in 2003 Calif. fire

SAN BERNARDINO, Calif. — Prosecutors say they’ll seek the death penalty for a man accused of setting a 2003 California wildfire that destroyed 1,000 homes and allegedly prompted five fatal heart attacks.

San Bernardino County District Attorney Michael Ramos said Thursday his office will seek capital punishment for 28-year-old Rickie Lee Fowler.

Fowler is serving time for an unrelated burglary. He has pleaded not guilty to five counts of murder and one count each of arson of an inhabited structure and aggravated arson.

District attorney spokeswoman Susan Mickey says Fowler’s next court appearance is set for March 30.