Joseph James Strickland, 28, was found dead near River Road in Butte County, California, on March 16, 2017. Authorities identified him by fingerprint analysis and opened a homicide investigation, saying the circumstances suggested the encounter was targeted; further specifics were withheld at the time.

Born October 22, 1988, in San Diego and raised in Chico from 1989, Strickland was the youngest of six children and is remembered by family for his humor and love of gatherings. He enjoyed drawing, wrestling, football, and video games, and is survived by his parents, siblings, and four children.

No arrests or suspects have been publicly announced and investigators have not disclosed additional leads or motives. If anyone knew Joseph or has information about his death, please share what is known with the investigating agency.