06/14/2026
Everyone's heart should go out to his family. https://www.facebook.com/story.php?story_fbid=913436451834544&id=100095045910840&post_id=100095045910840_913436451834544&mibextid=CDWPTG
FRESNO,CA- A Brotherhood Broken, A Legacy Cut Short: Retired Fresno Police Sergeant Tragically Killed by own Son.
The Fresno community and law enforcement family are reeling after a devastating weekend tragedy. Saturday night marked the final "end of watch" for retired Fresno Police Sergeant Freeman Hunter Jr. The 79-year-old veteran officer was killed just before midnight at a home near Shaw and Grantland avenues—allegedly at the hands of his own 21-year-old son, Freeman Hunter III.
The Incident: A Sudden Act of Violence
According to the Fresno County Sheriff's Office, deputies arrived at the scene shortly before midnight to find a heartbreaking situation.
The Suspect: Freeman Hunter III did not attempt to flee. "When we got to the house, we found the suspect there on the scene. He did not try to run or anything. Very compliant," explained Sheriff's Office spokesperson Tony Botti.
The Cause: While an exact motive remains unclear, investigators believe a domestic dispute escalated. "There may have been an argument. Based on the injuries, that would seem plausible," Botti stated.
The Outcome: Despite immediate, desperate lifesaving measures, Sergeant Hunter Jr. succumbed to stab wounds and died at the scene.
"This guy gave his life to one of the most dangerous professions. He was able to survive, go into retirement, only to find that one of his own family members was the biggest threat that took him out."
— Tony Botti, Fresno County Sheriff's Office
Honoring 32 Years of Dedicated Service
Sergeant Hunter Jr. was a cornerstone of the Fresno Police Department, dedicating over three decades of his life to protecting the community.
Throughout his 32-year career, Hunter Jr. navigated the daily dangers of the badge, serving as a steady anchor for the department and a guiding light for the generation of officers who followed him.
"A Mentor to Leaders"
The shockwaves of Hunter's passing have reverberated through the highest levels of Fresno's leadership. Fresno Police Chief Mindy Casto released a heartfelt statement expressing the profound grief felt by those who wore the badge alongside him.
"The Fresno Police Department was heartbroken to hear about Sergeant Freeman Hunter's tragic death, especially those of us who knew him and worked alongside him over the years," Chief Casto shared.
She noted that Hunter Jr. served as an early career mentor to both herself and Fresno Mayor Jerry Dyer. "He could always be relied on to provide common-sense, well-thought-out advice, particularly to younger officers and sergeants. Our prayers are with his family at this difficult time."
As the investigation continues into what sparked this unthinkable tragedy, the city of Fresno remembers a man who survived thirty years on the streets, only to be taken too soon at home.
