DATE: February 5, 2026,
INCIDENT: Cold Case Murder – Suspect Arrested
LOCATION: 12600 Block of Apple Valley Road, Apple Valley
SUSPECT(S): Michael Austin Roberts, 27-years-old, Resident of Apple Valley
VICTIM(S): Michael Brooks, 54-years-old, (at time of death), Resident of Apple Valley
SUMMARY: On Wednesday, August 10, 2016, Apple Valley Station deputies responded to 12600 block of Apple Valley Road, Apple Valley, reference a deceased subject found alone inside the residence. The decedent was identified as Michael Brooks. Brooks was found to have died from a single gunshot wound.
The Specialized Investigations Division, Homicide Detail, responded and assumed the investigation. During that time, detectives learned the wounds were not self-inflicted. An extensive investigation was initiated, and multiple people of interest were identified and interviewed. However, after exhausting all leads, the case eventually went cold, and a suspect was not identified.
The Sheriff’s Cold Case Homicide Team routinely reexamines cases that have been previously exhausted and work to develop new information and leads. In 2025, the Cold Case Homicide Team resumed the investigation into Michael Brooks’ murder. During the investigation, Michael Roberts was identified as a suspect in the murder. Roberts, who is now 27 years old, was 18 years old when this crime occurred.
On February 3, 2026, Roberts was in-custody at West Valley Detention Center on an unrelated charge. Roberts was interviewed by investigators. At the conclusion of the interview, Roberts was arrested and booked at West Valley Detention Center for the murder of Michael Brooks.
Anyone with information regarding this incident is urged to contact the Homicide Detail at 909-890-4904. Callers wishing to remain anonymous should contact We-Tip at 1-800-78-CRIME (27463) or go to wetip.com.
Refer: Detective Malcolm Page or Sergeant Justin Giles
Station: Homicide Detail
Phone No. 909-890-4904
Case No. DR# 181604961 H#2016-064
SHANNON D. DICUS, Sheriff-Coroner
San Bernardino County Sheriff-Coroner Department
