Charges Filed in Visalia Toddler Death

District Attorney Tim Ward has announced criminal charges have been filed against William Stallworth, age 25, in the death of his two-year-old son that occurred on September 5, 2019.

Stallworth is charged with one count of murder and one count of assault on a child causing death with the special allegation of willful harm or injury resulting in death.

“According to investigative reports given to our office by the Visalia Police Department, the child was playing in Mr. Stallworth’s vehicle alone when he obtained a loaded firearm located in the center console and sustained a single gunshot to the head. The circumstances surrounding this incident are still under investigation. Anyone with further information should contact the Visalia Police Department or the Office of the District Attorney,” said District Attorney Ward.

If convicted on all charges, Stallworth faces life in prison. He is scheduled to be arraigned today at the county pre-trial facility where a future court date will be set.

Media inquiries can be directed to the Office of the District Attorney, County of Tulare Assistant District Attorney Robert Dempsie (559) 636-5494