A retired police sergeant from California, who served the force for three decades, was reportedly fatally stabbed by his son on Saturday.
The incident occurred just before midnight at a residence in Fresno, where 79-year-old Freeman Hunter Jr., a former sergeant with the Fresno Police Department, was killed.
Authorities have identified the suspect as 21-year-old Freeman Hunter III. According to police, he was cooperative upon their arrival at the scene.
“Upon reaching the house, we found the suspect present. He made no attempt to flee and was very compliant,” explained Tony Botti, a spokesperson for the Fresno County Sheriff’s Office, in a statement to ABC 30.
Investigators are still trying to determine the motive behind the stabbing, with a potential personal dispute being considered. “There may have been an argument. Based on the injuries, that would seem plausible,” Botti added.
Police are unsure what led up to the stabbing, but are looking into a personal dispute as a possibility. “There may have been an argument. Based on the injuries, that would seem plausible,” Botti stated.
Officials attempted lifesaving measures on the retired police officer at the Shaw and Grantland Avenue home before he succumbed to his injuries.
Fresno police acknowledged the brutal irony of Hunter Jr.’s long career as a law enforcement officer, just to be allegedly killed by a member of his own family.
“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 mourned Hunter Jr.’s death.
“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,” Casto said.
“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.”
Hunter III has been booked into a Fresno County jail on a felony charge of first-degree murder. His bail section indicated he is eligible to be bailed out of jail, according to inmate records.
