Joseph Merical Fresno CA Shooting, Domestic Violence Suspect Shot Dead By Police
On August 24, 2025, we lost our beloved Joseph “Joey” Merical at just 35 years old. Joey was a retired Correctional Sergeant that was eager to begin a new career in Wildland Forestry, a passionate collector of vintage treasures, the kind of person who lit up every room with his warmth and humor. To those who knew him, he was our “human golden retriever”—loyal, joyful, full of love and chatter.
Joey leaves behind his wife Gisela and two beautiful daughters, Ava and Mila, whom he adored with every fiber of his being. He was a devoted son to “Grandpa Shawn and Grandma Diana”, an amazing brother to Sarah, a cherished friend, and a die-hard fan of the Miami Dolphins and Los Angeles Dodgers. His spirit was magnetic, and his love for life was contagious. A sucker for dad jokes and a pretty sunset photo.
Although always cheery, my husband also suffered from severe depression and poor mental health – a struggle that often faces a stigma in men. He faced it with quiet strength, and we honor not only the joy he brought into our lives but also the courage it took to carry that weight. His story of reinventing and never giving up reminds us of the importance of compassion, connection, and checking in on those we love. Please be kind to each other and remember to ask for help.
We are raising funds to give Joey the proper goodbye he deserves—a celebration of his life filled with love, laughter, and the memories he gave us. Every contribution, no matter the size, will help support funeral arrangements and memorial events.
