Cheryl Hanoian, James McFarland Obituary, Death – Authorities in Fowler have identified the two individuals who were found deceased inside a home earlier this week as 78-year-old Cheryl Hanoian and her son, 60-year-old James McFarland. According to officials, the case is being investigated as a murder-suicide, with McFarland considered the primary suspect and Hanoian identified as the victim.
Fowler Police Chief Greg Gularte reported that officers responded to a distress call around 6:30 p.m. on Wednesday regarding an alleged assault at a residence near Citrus and South Avenues. The initial call came from a woman who told dispatchers that one of her family members had contacted her and made disturbing statements about harming his mother, their pets, and himself.
When law enforcement officers arrived at the residence, they entered the home and discovered both individuals unresponsive. Sadly, both were confirmed deceased at the scene. Officers also discovered several animals inside the home that had not survived, adding to the tragic circumstances of the event.
Chief Gularte emphasized that this was believed to be an isolated domestic situation, noting that there was no ongoing threat to the community. The Fowler Police Department quickly secured the area and requested the Fresno County Sheriff’s Office to take over the investigation. The sheriff’s detectives and forensic teams were seen processing the scene late into the evening to gather evidence and confirm the sequence of events.
Authorities stated that based on preliminary findings, there was no indication of any outside involvement in the incident. Investigators believe the event unfolded entirely within the household and that it did not involve any other parties. Officials are now awaiting results from forensic and autopsy examinations to help establish a clear timeline and determine additional details surrounding the deaths.
Neighbors described the situation as shocking and deeply saddening. Some residents in the quiet Fowler community said that Hanoian and McFarland had lived in the area for years and were generally known to keep to themselves. Several expressed disbelief upon hearing the news, stating that it was difficult to comprehend such a tragedy occurring in their peaceful neighborhood.
The Fresno County Sheriff’s Office has continued to process evidence from the home and conduct interviews with relatives and acquaintances in hopes of piecing together what may have led to the tragic outcome. Authorities have not yet disclosed what may have motivated the incident but did confirm that mental health concerns are among the factors being reviewed as part of their investigation.
Chief Gularte expressed condolences to the family members affected by the loss, acknowledging the emotional toll that such events have on loved ones and the wider community. He also encouraged residents to reach out for help or report concerns if they notice someone struggling or expressing distressing thoughts.
The Fowler Police Department and the Sheriff’s Office are reminding the public that resources for mental and emotional support are available for anyone in crisis or who may know someone at risk. Community members can contact local counseling centers or reach the National Suicide and Crisis Lifeline by dialing 988 for immediate assistance.
The investigation remains active, and officials say further details will be released once the final autopsy reports are complete. For now, law enforcement continues to focus on providing answers to family members while ensuring that the community remains informed and reassured.
This deeply unfortunate event has left many in Fowler mourning the loss of two lives and reflecting on the importance of recognizing warning signs and seeking timely help when loved ones are in distress.
