HARRIS COUNTY, Texas – A family is grappling with grief and the absence of justice after a tragic turn of events in the courtroom. James Anderson took his own life moments before he was set to plead guilty to murdering his wife, Victoria Anderson, in their Kingwood home in 2023. The anticipated sentence was 35 years for his crime, which left a lasting impact on those who knew Victoria dearly.
Victoria’s parents, Roxie and Brad Fowler, spoke about their daughter, painting a picture of a vibrant young woman who thrived in her roles as a daughter, mother, and friend. “She had this incredible ability to brighten a room. Her talents were many, and her intelligence shone through in everything she did,” Roxie said, expressing her heartbreak through tears.
Described as a devoted Christian and proud alumna of Texas A&M, Victoria was also a loving mother to her 3-year-old son, BJ. “Her life revolved around him. She gave everything to ensure he had a nurturing and caring environment,” Brad shared. The family’s world shattered in September 2023 when James shot Victoria at their home, an act that occurred while their young son was present.
Months prior, Victoria had taken steps to escape what her mother termed an abusive and controlling marriage. Roxie detailed the years of emotional and physical torment that Victoria endured, voicing her frustrations about how her daughter’s pleas for help had gone unheeded. “He belittled her and humiliated her regularly. He recorded her actions and invaded her privacy without remorse,” Roxie said.
Last week, the Fowlers attended the court proceedings, anticipating a moment of accountability from Victoria’s accused killer. However, just before he was to confess to his crime, authorities reported he ingested a narcotic and collapsed, resulting in his subsequent death at a nearby hospital. “I told my husband that I wouldn’t believe it until I heard him say, ‘Guilty.’ But that moment never came,” Roxie lamented.
Despite the absence of the justice they sought, the Fowlers have found ways to honor Victoria’s memory, including a scholarship established in her name through the Aggie Foundation. “This ensures that her name will always be spoken when that scholarship is awarded. We want her legacy to continue,” Roxie explained.
Brad expressed the comforting thoughts he believes Victoria would share if she could speak to them now. “If she could talk to us, she’d remind us to stay strong for one another, saying, ‘Don’t cry, Daddy; it’s going to be okay. I’ll see you soon,’” he said, revealing the profound love and loss they feel.
In the aftermath of this tragedy, Roxie and Brad are dedicated to raising BJ, ensuring that their daughter’s spirit and values remain integral to his upbringing. “Every day, we strive to keep her memory alive, showing him who she was and how much she loved him,” they asserted, as they navigate their new reality filled with both sadness and hope.