Fresno Coroner Seeks Family of 68 Year Old Selma Man

The Fresno County Coroner's Office issued a public appeal after staff were unable to locate immediate family members for 68 year old Gerardo Diaz Galvez, who died at a Selma hospital on November 21. Coroner staff said they searched personal records and could not identify next of kin, a step the Coroner's Unit must complete before releasing the body for burial.

Officials provided limited identifying information and included a photograph with the release to assist anyone who might recognize Mr. Diaz Galvez. The notice urged anyone with information about relatives to contact the Coroner's Unit by phone at (559) 600 3400 or by email at coroner@fresnosheriff.org. The appeal was published on November 21 and remains active as authorities seek family contacts.

The situation affects more than administrative procedures. For many Fresno County residents, timely notification and burial are central to cultural and religious practices. Delays in locating relatives can prolong grief for families and complicate arrangements for disposition of remains. In communities with strong ties beyond the United States, relatives may live out of state or abroad, creating additional barriers for local officials attempting to make contact.

Coroner staff said their search of available personal records did not reveal immediate family members, a circumstance that can arise when individuals live apart from relatives or when documentation does not reflect current family networks. The office has turned to the public as a practical measure, asking neighbors, community organizations and those who knew Mr. Diaz Galvez to come forward.

For Fresno County residents, there is a practical public interest in resolving such cases promptly. Identifying next of kin allows for culturally appropriate funeral arrangements and reduces costs and logistical burdens for local agencies. It also ensures that any wishes left by the deceased can be honored, and that estate or property matters tied to disposition of remains can be addressed.

Local community groups, religious organizations and neighbors often play a key role in bridging information gaps when official records are insufficient. The Coroner's Unit requested that anyone with relevant information make contact as soon as possible, so family members can be notified and necessary arrangements begun.

Anyone with information about relatives of Gerardo Diaz Galvez should call the Coroner's Unit at (559) 600 3400 or email coroner@fresnosheriff.org.