FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: Wednesday, May 4, 2022

Contact: Tara Tsehlana, tara.tsehlana@co.thurston.wa.us

Olympia, WA – On May 3, 2022, a Thurston County jury found Michael Brower guilty of second-degree murder – domestic violence while armed with a firearm and while in the presence of a child. The victim of the crime was Michael Brower's wife, Tuyen Dang Ngoc Brower.

In the late evening of May 20, 2020, Thurston County Sheriff’s Deputies responded to a 911 call from the family’s Yelm residence. Dispatchers notified law enforcement of a history of domestic violence and mental health calls made from the address as well as a previous protective order between the defendant and Mrs. Brower.

The couple's four young children had been asleep and were awakened by the argument between their parents. The oldest child came out of her room and was ordered by Michael Brower to return to her room. After the child left the room, Michael Brower shot Tuyen Brower in the chest, causing her death.

Charges were filed against Brower in Thurston County Superior Court on May 21, 2020, and the judge ordered the defendant to be held without bail. The case was prosecuted by Deputy Prosecuting Attorneys, Jennifer Lord and Alexis Egolf.

“Without the support of our great team and the hard work of the Thurston County Sheriff’s Office, we could not have held the defendant accountable,” Lord said. “We are grateful to have justice for the victim and her children.”

Sentencing in the case will be scheduled for August 2022.