LONG BEACH : Tests Ordered for Mother Who Threw Sons in River
A 23-year-old San Pedro mother accused of dropping her two sons 50 feet from a bridge into the Los Angeles River on Tuesday, has been ordered to undergo a psychiatric evaluation to determine if she is fit to stand trial.
Donna Jean Fleming is charged with murder and attempted murder and is being held without bail. Her attorney, Stephen Pace, requested the evaluation Thursday in Long Beach Superior Court. Judge Arthur Jean approved the request and rescheduled the arraignment for March 30.
Fleming’s youngest son, Craig Alan Fleming, 22 months, died after spending 20 minutes in the frigid waters Tuesday morning. Michael Robert Fleming, 3, was in critical condition when he was admitted to St. Mary Medical Center in Long Beach, but his condition was upgraded to serious Wednesday night, hospital officials said.
During her brief court appearance Thursday, Fleming, handcuffed and clad in jail overalls, appeared red-eyed and downcast. Greg Overton, 20, one of Fleming’s three younger brothers, looked on silently.
The hospital has started a fund for Michael Fleming. Contributions can be sent to the St. Mary Medical Center Foundation--Michael Fleming Fund, 1045 Atlantic Ave., Long Beach 90813.
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