January 7, 2025 – San Bernardino County Sheriff’s Department officials report that on Sunday, January 5, 2025, at approximately 1:35 a.m., deputies with the Morongo Basin Sheriff Station responded to Hi Desert Medical Center in Joshua Tree, in reference to a female in the emergency room with severe injuries. The victim was brought into the emergency room by her husband, Carlos Zamudio, who had injuries to his face. Despite lifesaving measures, the victim, Savannah Encke, was pronounced deceased at the hospital.

Detectives with the Sheriff’s Specialized Investigations Division, Homicide Detail, responded and assumed the investigation. During the investigation, it was determined Zamudio was responsible for the injuries leading to Encke's death. Zamudio was arrested and booked at the Morongo jail for PC 187 – Murder.

Anyone with information about this case is asked to contact Detective Owenn Domon, Specialized Investigations Division at (909) 890-4904. Callers can remain anonymous and contact We-Tip at 800-78CRIME or www.wetip.com. 

DATE: January 5, 2025, 1:35 a.m.

INCIDENT: Homicide Investigation

LOCATION: 5900 block of Aztec Avenue, Twentynine Palms

SUSPECT(S): Carlos Zamudio, 23-year-old Resident of Twentynine Palms

VICTIM(S): Savannah Encke, 21-year-old Resident of Twentynine Palms

Refer: Detective Owenn Domon or Sergeant Michael Warrick

Station: Specialized Investigations Division

Phone No. (909) 890-4904

Case No. DR#202500011 / H#2025-002

Source: San Bernardino County Sheriff’s Department