Accident – Death – Obituary News :

Gallia County Man Indicted for Murder in Connection with Assault Death

GALLIA COUNTY, OH (WOWK) – A grand jury has indicted Joseph P. Hernandez, a 20-year-old resident of Gallipolis, on one count of murder, a special category felony, in connection with the deadly assault of a man in Gallia County. The indictment comes after Hernandez was arrested on December 6, following an investigation into the assault that occurred on George’s Creek Road in Addison Township.

Gallia County Sheriff Matt Champlin revealed that the victim, identified as 69-year-old David Freeman, was tragically killed in his own home located along the 600 block of Georges Creek Road in Addison Township. The investigation was initiated after 911 dispatchers received a distress call on December 1 at approximately 10:34 a.m., reporting an assault on a male individual.

Regrettably, Freeman succumbed to his injuries at the scene of the incident, as confirmed by Sheriff Champlin.

According to a criminal complaint, law enforcement discovered a pair of glasses at the crime scene that did not belong to Freeman. Through further investigation, Hernandez was identified as the suspect. Subsequently, when authorities searched his residence, they found traces of human blood in his vehicle, on his clothing, and on the washer and dryer. Additionally, Hernandez had reportedly mentioned to law enforcement that he had lost his glasses at some point.

The indictment handed down by the grand jury signifies a significant step forward in the legal proceedings against Hernandez. If convicted of the murder charge, he could face severe legal consequences. The Gallia County Prosecuting Attorney’s Office will now proceed with the necessary legal actions to hold Hernandez accountable for his alleged involvement in the assault death case.

The tragic incident has left the community in shock and mourning the loss of David Freeman. Friends and neighbors have expressed their condolences to Freeman’s family and have come together to support one another during this difficult time.

The Gallia County Sheriff’s Office has extended its gratitude to the community for their cooperation and assistance throughout the investigation. Sheriff Champlin emphasized the importance of community involvement in solving crimes and ensuring the safety and well-being of Gallia County residents.

The legal proceedings against Joseph P. Hernandez will continue, and more details are expected to emerge as the case progresses through the criminal justice system. The Gallia County community will closely follow the developments, hoping for justice to be served for David Freeman and his grieving loved ones.

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