Retired Fresno Police sergeant stabbed to death by his own son, Fresno County deputies say

FRESNO, Calif. (KFSN) -- Saturday night marked the end of watch for retired Fresno Police Sergeant, 79-year-old Freeman Hunter Jr., allegedly at the hands of his own son.

The Fresno County Sheriff's Office says Hunter Jr.'s son, 21-year-old Freeman Hunter III, killed him just before midnight at a home near Shaw and Grantland avenues.

"When we got to the house, we found the suspect there on the scene. He did not try to run or anything. Very compliant. Deputies were able to take him into custody," Fresno County Sheriff's Office spokesperson, Tony Botti explained.

It's not yet known what led up to the deadly stabbing.

"There may have been an argument. Based on the injuries, that would seem plausible," Botti stated.

Despite lifesaving measures, Hunter Jr. died on scene.

The 79-year-old served the Fresno Police Department for three decades.

"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, so our condolences go out to the family and the Fresno Police Department," Botti said.

Fresno Police Chief Mindy Casto shared a statement that reads:

"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. Sergeant Hunter was hired by the Fresno Police Department on July 1, 1973, and retired on July 8, 2005. He was a well-respected member of the Fresno Police Department and a mentor to both Mayor Dyer and me early in our careers. 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."

If you are the victim of domestic abuse, or you know someone who is, there is help available 24/7. In Fresno County, call the Marjaree Mason Center at (559) 233-4357. In all other locations, call the National Domestic Violence Hotline at (800) 799-7233.

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