District Attorney Announces the Conviction of Brian Russell Stange for First Degree Murder and Stalking Following Jury Trial

County of Inyo
DISTRICT ATTORNEY

September 3, 2026

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

District Attorney Announces the Conviction of Brian Russell Stange for First Degree Murder and Stalking Following Jury Trial

District Attorney Dana Crom announced today that a jury has convicted Brian Russell Stange of first degree murder and stalking in connection with the shooting death of David Miller.  The jury further found that the defendant committed the murder while lying in wait and using a firearm.

On February 12, 2024, victim David Miller was walking toward his home in Bishop, California when he was shot in the back by an unknown assailant. Following the shooting, the Inyo County Sheriff’s Department commenced a comprehensive investigation with the assistance of multiple local law enforcement agencies.

Through the coordinated efforts of the participating agencies, investigators identified Brian Russell Stange as a suspect in the murder. The investigation ultimately led to the defendant’s arrest.

As the investigation continued, law enforcement uncovered evidence that the defendant had stalked Mr. Miller during the weeks preceding the murder. The evidence presented at trial established that the defendant’s actions were motivated, at least in part, by a desire to eliminate Mr. Miller, who was in a romantic relationship with an individual the defendant wished to date.

During the trial, the People presented testimony from 32 witnesses and introduced numerous pieces of physical and other evidence. Among the evidence presented to the jury was the firearm used by the defendant in the murder.

After hearing the evidence, including the defendant’s testimony, and arguments of counsel, the jury deliberated for five days before returning a unanimous verdict finding the defendant guilty of murder and stalking.

“This conviction is the result of a thorough and determined investigation by our dedicated law enforcement agencies, which worked collaboratively to identify the person responsible for Mr. Miller’s death,” said District Attorney Dana Crom. “The evidence demonstrated not only the defendant’s responsibility for this murder, but also the disturbing pattern of stalking that preceded it. I commend everyone involved in the prosecution of this case, which was led by Assistant District Attorney David Christensen and supported by District Attorney Chief Investigator Rick Beall and Inyo County Sheriff Sergent Investigator Chris Connolly.”

“The defendant’s actions deprived Mr. Miller of his life and unimaginable harm on those who knew and loved him. Today’s verdict holds the defendant accountable and provides a measure of justice for the victim and his family.”

The District Attorney’s Office extends its appreciation to the Inyo County Sheriff’s Department, Bishop Police Department, California Highway Patrol and the numerous local law enforcement agencies whose cooperation and investigative efforts were instrumental in bringing this case to trial.

The defendant is scheduled to be sentenced on November 13, 2026.