A well-known British journalist was fatally stabbed in the San Gabriel Mountains by his son. Paul Lowe’s death has left the world in mourning. His son has been charged with his father’s murder. Lowe is well-known for his involvement in major conflicts, such as the Bosnian War.
Tragic End to a Distinguished Career
Paul Lowe, a well-known British photojournalist and educator, died tragically on October 12, 2024, during what should have been a peaceful hike in California’s San Gabriel Mountains. Lowe, 60, was discovered with a fatal stab wound in the neck. In a shocking development, his 19-year-old son, Emir Abadzic Lowe, has been charged with his murder.
The incident has sent shockwaves through the photojournalism community, where Lowe was renowned for his pioneering work in conflict zones. According to authorities, a suspect, identified as Emir Lowe, was seen driving away from the scene and later involved in a traffic collision. He is now scheduled to appear in court in West Covina on the murder charge.
Renowned combat photographer Paul Lowe is dead after allegedly being murdered by his son on a popular Los Angeles hiking trail. https://t.co/HeG2WNllyj
— PetaPixel (@petapixel) October 16, 2024
A Legacy of Powerful Imagery
Paul Lowe’s career spanned decades and continents, capturing some of today’s most significant world events. He was best known for his photographs from the Bosnian war, particularly the haunting images of the Siege of Sarajevo. Lowe’s lens also caught other watershed moments in history, such as the fall of the Berlin Wall and Nelson Mandela’s release from prison.
Lowe’s approach to photography reflected his desire to document the human impact of war. He once described the risks that civilians took during the Sarajevo Siege, saying, “People would risk their lives for a little pleasure.” And it could be very hard on kids, who obviously didn’t want to be stuck indoors. During quieter periods, they were able to spend more time outside; I photographed children swimming in the river during a cease-fire. But the river, like so much of the city, was clearly visible to Serbian snipers.”
Renowned combat photographer Paul Lowe is dead after allegedly being murdered by his son on a popular Los Angeles hiking trail. https://t.co/HeG2WNllyj
— PetaPixel (@petapixel) October 16, 2024
Educator and Author
Aside from his field work, Lowe made significant contributions to photojournalism education. He taught photojournalism at the University of the Arts London and was a visiting professor at King’s College London. Lowe authored several influential books, including “Bosnians,” “Photography Masterclass,” and “Understanding Photojournalism,” and shared his knowledge with aspiring photographers all over the world.
“It is with deep sadness that we received the news of Professor Paul Lowe’s passing,” King’s College London stated. “A friend, colleague and collaborator whose work had a huge impact in shining a spotlight on the Siege of Sarajevo and addressing its legacy, we were privileged to work with him on several projects related to art and reconciliation.”
Lowe’s impact extended beyond the classroom. He was involved with The VII Foundation, which supports underrepresented journalists, and pioneered online learning in photography, enabling global access to education. His efforts in arts and peace-building, particularly in Bosnia and Herzegovina, were widely recognized and praised.
As the photojournalism community mourns Paul Lowe’s passing, his legacy as a compassionate storyteller, educator, and peace activist will continue to inspire future generations of photographers and journalists. His untimely death serves as a stark reminder that life is unpredictable, even for those who have witnessed and survived some of the world’s most dangerous conflicts.
Sources:
- A photojournalist is fatally stabbed on a California trail. His teen son is charged in his death
- Son charged with murdering British war photographer Paul Lowe in California
