Esther Bower
Esther Bower joined FOX 35 as a reporter in February 2023, and reports on Florida’s Space Coast part of our Brevard County news bureau.
While she didn’t grow up in the Sunshine State, she was born in Zephyrhills, Florida, making this a homecoming of sorts. Bower is a passionate journalist who is dedicated to connecting communities and empowering viewers.
Before joining FOX 35, she worked in Spokane, Washington, where she covered the tragic story of the four University of Idaho students who were murdered in their home, the sentencing for one of the first school shootings in the Inland Northwest, and the growing homelessness crisis on the West Coast.
Esther grew up in the farmland of Indiana, graduated from Ball State University, and studied at Northwestern University before starting her professional career. She loves the opportunity to bring people together and highlight humanity through stories of hope stemming from tragedy and neighbors supporting each other.
In her free time, she cherishes spending time with her family, trying new foods (the spicier the better!), running, dancing, and growing her faith. She’s so excited to call Central Florida home.
The latest from Esther Bower
Anna Kepner update: Stepbrother of teen found dead on Carnival cruise ship appears in federal court
The stepbrother of a Titusville teen girl who died on a Carnival cruise ship in November – who is being investigated as a suspect in her death – was in federal court in Miami, Friday.
Brevard Humane Society accuses contractor of taking deposit, abandoning Project: What we know
The Brevard Humane Society is speaking out after a local contractor allegedly took a deposit for a high-priority project and disappeared for months. This left shelter dogs without the space they need.
Artemis II launch delayed to March after issues during wet dress rehearsal
The historic launch of the Artemis II mission has been pushed back after multiple issues were encountered during a crucial prelaunch test at Kennedy Space Center.
Former principal avoids jail time, won't be re-hired by BPS for role in alleged underage house party
A former Cocoa Beach elementary school principal was sentenced Monday to two years of probation after reaching a plea deal in a case involving an alleged underage drinking party at her home.
Florida family recovering after drive-by shooting floods home: 'Absolutely insane'
A Titusville family is speaking out after a drive-by shooting tore through their apartment, puncturing a water line and flooding their home.
NASA pushes back Artemis II 'wet dress rehearsal' due to Florida cold weather
NASA has pushed back the Artemis II wet dress rehearsal to Feb. 2 due to cold weather in Florida.
Pooch rescued from dogfighting operation as 'bait dog' ready for new home on the Space Coast
When rescuers first found Teddy, his injuries told a story before anyone said a word. Large patches of fur were missing, replaced by wounds, bites and cuts covering much of his body.
Challenger disaster remembered 40 years later as NASA prepares for new lunar mission
The Artemis II mission, which will send four astronauts around the moon, is currently on the launch pad at Kennedy Space Center. Like Challenger four decades ago, the rocket is facing freezing temperatures, though officials say modern safeguards are in place to help prevent another tragedy.
Emaciated dog finally gaining weight after months of malnutrition
A dog found severely malnourished after being adopted from a shelter is showing signs of recovery, as the people accused of abusing her face criminal charges, authorities said.
Florida’s coast sees unusual wildlife activity as marine animals migrate south during winter
While recent freezing temperatures have unsettled humans across Florida, the waters remain relatively warm for migrating whales, drawing more of the marine mammals to the region, wildlife experts say.