A deep sense of sorrow and disbelief has settled over the small community of Fowler following a devastating tragedy that claimed the lives of 78-year-old Cheryl Hanoian and her son, 60-year-old James McFarland. Authorities in Fresno County are investigating the heartbreaking case as an apparent murder-suicide, leaving friends, neighbors, and loved ones reeling from the loss.
On Wednesday evening, around 6:30 p.m., officers with the Fowler Police Department were called to a home near Citrus and South Avenues after receiving a disturbing 911 call. According to Police Chief Greg Gularte, the caller reported that a family member had said he “had shot mom, was going to shoot the dogs, and shoot myself.” When law enforcement arrived, they made the grim discovery—both Cheryl and James were found deceased inside the home, along with several animals that had also been killed.
Investigators believe James McFarland fatally shot his mother before taking his own life. Chief Gularte confirmed that the tragedy was an isolated family incident, stressing that there was no ongoing danger to the public. “This is not a random act of violence,” Gularte said. “Our hearts go out to the family and neighbors impacted by this devastating situation.”
The Fresno County Sheriff’s Office has taken over the investigation and is now piecing together the events leading up to the shooting. Detectives continue to gather evidence, interview family members, and search for clues that could explain what led to such a heartbreaking outcome.
Neighbors describe Cheryl as a sweet, gentle woman who had lived in the Fowler area for decades—a pillar of kindness and grace who always greeted others with a smile. Many recall her love for gardening and her compassionate nature, often extending warmth to anyone who crossed her path. James, they said, tended to keep a lower profile, but those who knew him expressed sadness that things had come to such a tragic end.
In the wake of the tragedy, friends and community members have begun leaving flowers, candles, and handwritten notes outside the family’s home—a small but heartfelt gesture to honor Cheryl’s memory and to acknowledge the pain of what has been lost.
While the circumstances remain under investigation, the story of Cheryl Hanoian and James McFarland serves as a painful reminder of the importance of mental health awareness and early intervention. The Fowler community, though shaken, has come together in grief and compassion, supporting one another as they mourn two lives gone far too soon.
Authorities urge anyone struggling with emotional distress or suicidal thoughts to reach out for help. The 988 Suicide and Crisis Lifeline is available 24/7 for anyone in need of confidential support.
May Cheryl Hanoian be remembered for her kindness and love, and may both she and James McFarland rest in peace.
