Tragic Double Deaths in Fowler: Man Kills Mother and Himself, Three Dogs Also Found Dead

Tragic Double Deaths in Fowler: Man Kills Mother and Himself, Three Dogs Also Found Dead

Fowler, CA — A quiet neighborhood near Citrus and South avenues was shaken on Wednesday evening after two people were found dead inside a home in a heartbreaking incident. Authorities responded around 6:30 p.m. following a family member’s urgent report that a relative had confessed to shooting his mother, planned to kill the family’s dogs, and intended to take his own life.

Upon arrival, Fowler police officers were met with silence—no one answered the door or phone calls. To ensure safety and gather information, a sheriff’s deputy deployed a drone to scan the premises for any signs of movement both inside and outside the residence. After no response, officers forced entry into the home.

Inside, the grim scene unfolded: 60-year-old James Kelley McFarland, his 78-year-old mother Cheryl Hanoian, and three family dogs were all found dead from gunshot wounds. Investigators concluded that McFarland had fatally shot his mother before turning the weapon on himself. The fate of the dogs, also victims of the shooting, added to the sorrow of this tragic event.

Nearby residents were temporarily evacuated as a precaution while the scene was secured and examined by law enforcement. After the situation was contained, they were allowed to return to their homes.

The Fresno County Sheriff’s Office has now taken over the investigation to piece together the circumstances surrounding this tragic incident. According to investigators, McFarland had recently relocated to Fowler, moving back into his mother’s home along with his pets after living out of state for several years. The motive behind this devastating act remains unknown as detectives continue to gather information.

This incident marks the first homicide of 2025 in the city of Fowler, a community now grappling with the shock and sorrow of this loss. Authorities are urging anyone with additional information to come forward to assist with the ongoing investigation.

Community members are reminded of available local resources for mental health support and counseling in the wake of this tragedy, underscoring the importance of reaching out for help in times of crisis.

We will provide updates as more details become available